Hyundai and Kia are making significant strides in their electric vehicle (EV) programs, with Kia planning to release 15 EV models by 2027. Kia believes that customers will prefer smaller and more affordable models, which is why they are starting with entry-level options. One such model is the Kia EV3 crossover, which was first introduced as a concept in October 2023 and has since been launched as a production model. Deliveries are expected to begin by the end of this year, and a US version is anticipated as a 2025 model.
Following the EV3, Kia’s sister model, the EV4, is scheduled to debut next year. The EV4 Concept showcased a sedan version of the EV3, featuring a liftback design reminiscent of the Hyundai Elantra. However, recent sightings in Europe have revealed that Kia is also planning a hatchback variant of the EV4. This addition aims to make the EV4 more appealing in Europe, where sedans are less popular.
Spy shots of prototypes being tested in Europe indicate that the EV4 will maintain the design language introduced in the 2023 Concept. The front of the EV4 resembles the EV3, while the rear follows the lines of the EV4 Concept. The hatchback version introduces an almost vertical tailgate, drawing inspiration from the EV3 crossover’s design, including the distinctive taillights.
Specific technical details about the upcoming EV4 models are scarce. However, considering their close relationship to the EV3 crossover, it is reasonable to expect similar specifications. Like the EV3, the Kia EV4 will utilize a simplified version of Hyundai-Kia’s E-GMP architecture. The main distinction is that the smaller EV4 models will not feature the 800-volt electrical system found in the EV6 and EV9. Nonetheless, customers should not experience a significant decrease in charging performance due to the EV4’s smaller battery pack.
The Kia EV4 will be available with two battery options: 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh. In the case of the EV3 crossover, these battery capacities offer a range of 254 and 374 miles, respectively, based on the European WLTP cycle. The EV4’s improved aerodynamics may offset its slightly heavier weight, resulting in similar range figures. Charging capabilities are expected to be comparable as well, with peak DC fast charging rates of 102 kW for the smaller battery pack and 128 kW for the larger one. In both cases, charging from 10% to 80% should take less than 30 minutes.
