Setting its sights on upping electrification, we look at the first Kia to launch on the new E-GMP platform, the Kia EV6.
The Evolutionary Look of the Kia EV6
The new Kia EV6 features the latest Kia design language to mark the shifting focus towards electric-powered models and will be the first Kia model to feature the new logo released earlier this year.
The front-end styling reflects the innovative new power-source doing away with unnecessary air intakes to allow for engine cooling. Instead, it features a slim grille flanked by headlights that wrap around onto the front wings.
Kia says the new-look front end styling is an evolution of its tiger-nose concept and has named it the ‘Digital Tiger Face’.
Meanwhile, the compact drivetrain generates a more dynamic look accentuated by the coupe-like roof, which tapers to the chopped-off tail. Not only does this do wonders for the styling, but it also improves aerodynamics.
A New Design Language
Vast changes are underway at Kia, and the EV6 is the first of seven all-electric models Kia plans to release by 2027 as part of its Plan S business plane. All of the models will utilise the EV prefix to make them instantly recognisable as all-electric models.
However, Kia is not only improving its green credentials, but it is also overhauling its entire design language. The EV6 will be the first car built on Kia’s five key ‘Opposites United’ design pillars:
- Bold for Nature
- Joy for Reason
- Power to Progress
- Technology for Life
- Tension for Serenity
Kia says these five areas form the inspiration of the EV6’s shape and proportions, feel and ambience, the evolution of brand’s strength, adoption of new technology and innovations and balance of the car’s look respectively.
E-GMP Platform
The Kia EV6 will also be the first Kia model to sit upon the Group’s new E-GMP platform. The Hyundai Group, which represents both Kia and Hyundai, has put significant development into the new platform to ensure it offers development flexibility, driving performance, enhanced range capabilities, increased safety and more cabin space.
When it comes to the new EV6, the E-GMP platform has allowed Kia incredible freedom to design a more welcoming interior. The packaging optimises available space for the car’s battery and electric motor, which frees up more space in the cabin.
Emission-Free Motoring
Exact details on the battery and range have yet to be released. However, as Kia’s new E-GMP architecture is the same as that used by sister brand Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, we assume the EV6 is likely to have the same range of battery and electric motor options as the Hyundai.
So you can expect the choice between a 58kWh and 72.6kWh battery pack and a range of around 300-miles.
We anticipate the entry-level model will feature the smaller battery in a rear single-motor set-up and offer 168bhp and 350Nm torque. While upgrading to the more powerful battery will get you 215bhp.
With the same 800 Volt electronic architecture, we can also fully expect the EV6 to have the same impressive charging capabilities as the Ioniq model. It means 200kW charging will be possible, which can boost charge from 10 to 80 per cent in a mere 18 minutes.
Advanced Interior
Continuing to drive next-generation in-car technology, the new EV6 will come with a brand new infotainment system called Audio Visual and Navigation (AVN) Screen. The sleek high-definition curved panel will revolutionise connectivity on the move to ensure you can always stay on track.
The EV6 also features a slim dashboard that houses the digital driver display and climate control buttons which use haptic feedback for more intuitive use.
Below the air-con controls, the dash slopes away towards the front of the car to create more space and improve the feeling of openness inside the cabin.
Meanwhile, in a push to boost its environmental credentials, the slim and lightweight front seats will come trimmed in an environmentally friendly fabric made from recycled plastic.
Find Out More
The new Kia EV6 is likely to arrive in showrooms and go on sale later this year. So you don’t have too long to wait to get behind the wheel of this dynamic new all-electric Kia. If it has sparked your interest, why not get in touch with your local Stoneacre Kia showroom and register your interest.
