Bottom Line Up Front
Kia says it will keep studying a sub‑€25,000 electric city car, the EV1, which could join the Picanto in Europe before the end of the decade.
Kia EV1 City Car – Potential Launch, Price and Specs
Image: Kia EV1 City Car – Potential Launch, Price and Specs – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The EV1 is expected to share the compact, urban‑friendly dimensions of the newly unveiled EV2 crossover, which Kia showed at the Brussels motor show. Both models are built for tight city streets and will likely be produced in Kia’s Slovakian plant, keeping the footprint small and the price low. Kia’s European marketing chief David Hibbert hinted that the EV1 will follow the same design language – sleek roofline, short overhangs and a front‑end that feels familiar to Picanto owners.
Performance & Mileage
While exact specs for the EV1 are still under wraps, the EV2 boasts a near‑300‑mile (≈480 km) WLTP range, proving that a small city car can still go beyond daily commutes. Kia’s CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed that the “homework” for a sub‑€25k EV includes achieving a realistic range for urban use. The upcoming EU ‘E‑car’ category for affordable small EVs should give the EV1 a regulatory advantage, especially with fast‑charging capabilities that Kia plans to include.
Price & Rivals
Kia aims to price the EV1 under €25,000 (£22,000), positioning it against the Renault Twingo electric and the upcoming Volkswagen ID 1. The goal is to make electric motoring accessible to first‑time buyers while keeping sales volume strong for the Picanto platform.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric motor (single) | Up to 300 mi (WLTP) | Under €25,000 |
|
FAQ
What range can the Kia EV1 expect?
Based on the EV2 platform, the EV1 is likely to offer around 300 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, enough for most daily city trips.
Will the Kia EV1 be cheaper than the Renault Twingo electric?
Kia’s target price is under €25,000, which should be competitive with – or slightly lower than – the Twingo electric’s expected price.
Is the EV1 meant only for city driving?
While designed for urban environments, the projected 300‑mile range means it can comfortably handle longer weekend journeys as well.
What do you think about Kia’s EV1 plans? Leave a comment below and let us know!
Source: Read Official News
