Overall, Kia is gearing up for the next wave of electric vehicles, with plans to launch an entry-level model priced below €25,000. This new model will join the current EV lineup, including the EV3, EV6, EV9, EV4, and EV5, with the EV2 set to follow in 2026. The focus is now on what comes next for the brand.
Kia’s president and CEO, Ho Sung Song, emphasized the importance of entry-level models and affordability, confirming the development of a “baby Kia” that is in the works. While the current Picanto city car continues to sell well in Europe and will remain on sale for now, Kia is working on creating an entry-level electric city car to replace it in the future.
Additionally, Kia is embracing software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and is preparing to launch a new architecture for its larger models using this technology. SDVs streamline a car’s subsystems into a few core systems, allowing for greater stability, reliability, and easier updates. This approach will also enable more personalized user interfaces and frequent software upgrades for customers.
In line with its commitment to meeting global market demands, Kia will continue to invest in hybrid and range-extender powertrains alongside its EV lineup. While EVs are the ultimate goal in Europe, alternative powertrains are necessary for different markets worldwide. Range-extender technology is particularly interesting for larger vehicles where pure EVs may not be as well suited.
With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Kia is positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market while also catering to a diverse range of customer needs with its hybrid and range-extender offerings. The future looks bright for Kia as it continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup and explore new technologies to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry.
Kia’s commitment to innovation and staying ahead in the automotive industry is evident in their plans for future design and innovations. According to Song, Kia is not putting an end date on the development of internal combustion engines, showing their dedication to evolving with the times.
The company is already planning a new evolution in the design of its models, with Song emphasizing the importance of staying ahead and maintaining innovation in this area. He recognizes that design is a key factor for customers when buying cars, and Kia is constantly thinking of ways to renew and improve their vehicle designs. By staying ahead of the curve and continually innovating, Kia aims to keep their customers engaged and excited about their cars.
In addition to focusing on design, Kia is also gearing up to introduce an AI assistant in all of their new vehicles. This AI assistant will help control a car’s functions and introduce more innovation to future Kias. Song believes that customers are expecting more innovation in vehicles, similar to what they experience with smartphones. By partnering with companies like Samsung, Kia is working towards providing new and exciting features in their vehicles.
Furthermore, Kia is investing in the development of full autonomous driving, which Song believes will greatly benefit customers in the future. This technology will be integrated into the SDV architecture that Kia is currently developing. By embracing autonomous driving technology, Kia is ensuring that they are at the forefront of advancements in the automotive industry.
Overall, Kia’s focus on future design and innovations highlights their commitment to providing customers with cutting-edge vehicles that meet their evolving needs and expectations. With a dedication to staying ahead of the curve and continually improving, Kia is poised to remain a leader in the automotive industry for years to come.
