Kia is already launching a wave of new entry-level electric vehicles, but it’s working on an even more affordable EV. It will sit below the EV2 with starting prices under $30,000 (€25,000).
Kia is developing a more affordable entry-level EV
During its EV Day event in April, Kia unveiled the Concept EV2 for the first time, previewing the production model set to launch in 2026.
The EV2 was showcased alongside the EV4, Kia’s first electric sedan and hatchback, and PV5, its first EV van. Kia is building a full lineup of electric vehicles, including the EV2, EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6, and EV9, but more are in the pipeline.
Kia’s president and CEO, Ho Sung Song, confirmed the company’s commitment to entry-level models. Song told Autocar that an even more affordable EV was “homework.”
The new EV, priced under €25,000 ($30,000), was “one area we are studying and developing,” Kia’s CEO added.
However, Kia is not rushing to replace its current city car, the Picanto. According to the report, the Picanto will remain on sale until Kia can create the new electric car for under €25,000 ($30,000).
Although a launch date has yet to be confirmed, it is likely to be around the end of the decade before we see it. The new EV could also be sold alongside the current gas-powered city car.
Kia’s design director, Karim Habib, said the company drew inspiration from the popular Japanese brand Muji, known for its minimalist design.
This is just the start for Kia. The EV4 and EV5 are rolling out this year, followed by the EV2 in 2026. A next-gen EV6 and EV9 are due out by the end of the decade, based on a new software-defined vehicle (SDV) 800V architecture
Song explained that “Because we are decoupling hardware and software, we can be more flexible, making different kinds of vehicles based on the same platform.”
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