On sale before the end of 2018 will be the Kia e-Niro, a fully electric version of the crossover unveiled at the Paris motor show.
Kia claims a range of 301 miles between charges for the e-Niro, under the new and more ‘real world’ WLTP combined cycle measuring method.
[UPDATE 3 DECEMBER 2018: The official range of the e-Niro has been downgraded from 301 miles to 282 miles as a result of ‘a testing error’. Kia claims to have contacted customers who have places orders for the new vehicle.]
In urban environments the potential range rises to 382 miles, aided by the battery regeneration produced by constant coasting and braking. The e-Niro includes an Eco Driving Assistant System that advises drivers how to drive more efficiently and make the most of the battery.
European versions of the car will use a 64kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is paired with a 150kW (204hp) electric motor with a 395Nm torque figure. As a result the e-Niro will offer a 7.8-second 0-62mph time.
Also on offer will be a 39.2kWh version which combines with a 100kW (100hp) motor, producing the same torque figure but a 9.8-second 0-62mph time. This version will offer a combined cycle range of up to 193 miles, and using a fast charger will be able to be recharged from 20 to 80% in 42 minutes.
Kia says that the Niro was designed from the start to accept a battery-electric powertrain and so it has a minimal effect on the car’s interior space. The 451-litre boot space is claimed to outstretch many plug-in and hybrid rivals, and includes a dedicated compartment under the floor to store the car’s charging cable.
Design details differentiate the e-Niro from other versions of the crossover, including the already available plug-in hybrid model.
The exterior is ‘cleaned up’ to aid aerodynamics and battery life, notably on the front bumper while above it the signature ‘tiger nose’ grille includes the charging socket. Blue trim highlights also feature.
Inside the major change is to the centre console, as there is no need for a traditional gear lever. A rotary ‘shift by wire’ control takes its place, mounted on a panel extending from the base of the centre armrest. Again blue detailing features.
Kia is yet to announce UK pricing and specification details for the e-Niro, which will directly rival the UK’s best-selling EV, the Nissan LEAF.
The related, but smaller Hyundai Kona electric is priced from £25,000 in the UK, after the Government plug-in car grant is deducted.
