The Kia Niro EV is one of the most awaited electric cars to arrive this year and Kia is at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, teasing us with some specs.
Below you can read the most interesting parts of the press release.
“As part of this strategy, Kia is exhibiting the Niro EV Concept at CES 2018. Combining the stylish design of a modern compact SUV with the high efficiency of an advanced battery-electric powertrain, the Kia Niro EV Concept represents the next step in the brand’s ongoing journey to electrification. Created by Kia’s design studio in Korea, the Niro EV Concept is a fully-electric compact SUV. Its aerodynamically-efficient body allows air to slip over, around and beneath the vehicle with ease. The traditional grille – no longer required for engine cooling – is replaced by a smooth interactive display panel, combined with ultra-slim lamp technology in the overall front. In profile, the concept draws inspiration from the current Kia Niro, with a modish compact crossover silhouette, elevated body and wide C-pillar. The Niro EV Concept’s seamless rear aspect has clean and sharp trailing edges allowing air to flow more easily off the back of the car.
The Niro EV Concept is powered by a next-generation electric vehicle powertrain, using new production technologies earmarked for near-future EVs from Kia. Energy is provided by a high-capacity 64 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, paired with a powerful 150 kW electric motor. The Niro EV Concept suggests a driving range of 238 miles (383 kilometers), with zero tailpipe emissions.”
Kia Niro EV Concept at CES 2018, Las Vegas
The electric version of the Kia Niro will have some aerodynamic tweaks that the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants don’t have. Furthermore, with a 64 kWh battery, a 150 kW electric motor and a range of 238 miles (383 km) it’s clear that the Chevrolet Bolt EV will be its most direct rival.
Nonetheless, it’s not yet known if the Kia Niro EV will also have a smaller 39,2 kWh battery as option, as it’s the case with the Hyundai Kona EV (39,2 kWh and 64,2 kWh).
As a side note, Kia Niro and Hyundai IONIQ share the same platform, this means that the upgraded Hyundai IONIQ EV – coming this year – and the Kia Niro EV will probably share the same battery options.
Anyway, the biggest winner here it’s LG Chem, that will supply the battery and electric motor. LG Chem is finally standardizing battery pouch cells and electric motors to ease production and reduce costs.
