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Kia\u2019s EV4 is on its way \u2013 and our spies have caught it out on test on European roads for the first time.<\/p>\n
Despite the heavy disguise, it\u2019s clear that the model is shaping up to be another exciting addition to the Korean company\u2019s growing electric SUV line-up.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The extensive camouflage doesn\u2019t give much away, but vertically stacked LED headlights and futuristic \u2018triangular\u2019 wheel designs point to an extrovert look, while there appear to be nods to the larger EV5 and EV9, and the rear has strong hints of the EV6.<\/p>\n
As the exclusive images of the Kia EV4 we had drawn up in 2022 suggest, there is likely to be a full-width LED rear light bar, as well as muscular surfacing and Kia\u2019s new logo.<\/p>\n
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The spy shots, taken in Germany, also seem to indicate that the dark ridge on the EV6\u2019s C-pillar has made its way over, as have the black wheelarches. And it would appear that the model is close to production, given it is now out on public roads with no temporary testing components or add-ons.<\/p>\n
We first became aware of plans for the EV4 last year, when Kia announced its intention to launch 14 new EVs by 2027. These plans are gaining momentum, with the EV5, EV6 and EV9 now all unveiled, and the EV4 set to follow, sized as a rival for the Volvo C40, Mercedes EQA, and the BMW iX1.<\/p>\n
The EV4 is based on the Hyundai-Kia Group\u2019s E-GMP platform for electric cars. A slightly downsized wheelbase compared with the EV6 (2,900mm) means its dimensions are close to those of Kia\u2019s\u00a0European-spec, fifth-generation Sportage SUV.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Clever packaging made possible by the versatile platform\u00a0 maximises cabin space, with fewer compromises than in a combustion-engined car. And even with a shorter wheelbase, the EV4 is likely to make use of the EV6\u2019s battery technology.<\/p>\n
That means 58kWh and 77.4kWh could be offered for a maximum range of just over 300 miles. Expect dual-motor powertrains, too, giving four-wheel-drive capability and potentially up to 321bhp, although a 226bhp single-motor version is also expected to be available, lowering the entry price.<\/p>\n
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With the E-GMP set-up offering 800-volt electronic architecture and a maximum 350kW rapid-charge rate, the bigger battery should charge from 10 to 80 per cent in a mere 18 minutes, or take 62 miles of range in only five minutes.<\/p>\n
While the E-GMP platform will form the basis of many future Kia EVs, European product boss Sjoerd Knipping previously outlined that it \u201cwon\u2019t serve all segments, in particular some smaller sectors.\u201d He added: \u201cNot all cars need 800V tech, so could we use our 400V tech in places? We need to see if the market segments we serve can be with derived platforms [such as the\u00a0e-Niro], or will there be a new platform?\u201d<\/p>\n
Kia plans to have a line-up of 11 electric cars by 2025; six standalone EVs, with five \u201cderivative\u201d EV models. Knipping said: \u201cWe have to work out what is the priority; the sectors where to push EV, and where you can lean on ICE platforms.\u201d<\/p>\n
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As the full-electrification charge gathers pace, the EV4 could make its official debut later this year or early in 2024.<\/p>\n