Kia has recently unveiled the technical specifications for the European version of its EV5 electric SUV. This European model comes with a different battery compared to the Chinese-market version that was launched two years ago. The European EV5 is equipped with an 81.4kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, which is also found in the smaller EV3 and EV4 models. This larger battery is said to provide a range of up to 329 miles on a single charge.
One of the highlights of the European EV5 is its fast charging capability, allowing it to be charged at up to 120kW on a DC connection. This means that the battery can be refilled from 10% to 80% in just half an hour. Additionally, the battery has vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-grid capabilities, enabling it to power external devices or even contribute to the wider electrical grid.
At launch, the European EV5 will be available with only one powertrain option: a single front-mounted motor producing 215bhp and 218lb ft of torque. This powertrain allows the EV5 to accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds. The four-wheel-drive configuration with 302bhp, which is offered in China, will not be available initially in the European market.
There is speculation that Kia may introduce a GT version of the EV5 in the future, featuring more power, a sportier suspension setup, and simulated gear changes. This trend has been seen with the EV6 and EV9 models, and the EV4 is likely to follow suit.
Inside the European EV5, drivers can expect a modern and tech-savvy cabin with 12.3-inch displays for instruments and infotainment, as well as a 5.3-inch touch panel for climate control. The front bench-style seats in the Chinese version have been replaced with a more conventional two-seat layout and a larger center console.
Unlike its Chinese counterpart, the European-market EV5 will be manufactured in Korea to avoid the European Union’s tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. The first batch of EV5s is expected to arrive in the UK in the winter. While pricing details have not been confirmed yet, the EV4 Long Range starts at £37,695 and the EV6 Long Range at £45,585, indicating that the EV5 could be priced just below £40,000. This positioning would make it a direct competitor to popular electric SUVs like the Audi Q4 E-tron, Nissan Ariya, and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
