The electric Kia EV5 gets concept looks, a single electric motor and a battery pack sourced from BYD
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The new Kia EV5 electric SUV’s production-ready design and specs were revealed earlier than expected, thanks to the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The compact model, which is set to make its official debut in the upcoming weeks, will be manufactured in China with plans for export to global markets.
Kia’s designers certainly weren’t joking when they claimed that the EV5 concept unveiled in March 2023 closely resembled the upcoming production EV. The SUV’s appearance remains almost indistinguishable from the concept, featuring only minor alterations. The wheels come in two sizes, 18 or 19 inches in diameter, yet they maintain the same design as the 21-inch wheels showcased in the concept.
The revisions over the study include traditional side mirrors, streamlined door handles, an enlarged charging port, and subtly altered LED headlights. These adjustments accompany an otherwise strikingly similar body design. While interior visuals are yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated that the model will draw significant inspiration from the larger EV9 in both aesthetics and technological features.
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The dimensions of the EV5 are as follows: a length of 4,615 mm (181.7 inches), a width of 1,875 mm (73.8 inches), and a height of 1,715 mm (67.5 inches), all built upon a wheelbase measuring 2,750 mm (108.3 inches). These measurements position the EV5 as the electric counterpart to the Kia Sportage within the manufacturer’s lineup.
The EV5 is built upon the E-GMP architecture, incorporating McPherson front struts and a multi-link rear suspension, consistent with other electric models offered by Kia. According to the provided specifications, the SUV will be equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor obtained from Vitesco Automotive Electronics. This motor generates 215 horsepower (160 kW / 218 PS) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque, which is exclusively channeled to the front wheels. The maximum speed will be electronically capped at 185 km/h (115 mph). Energy will be stored in BYD’s Blade lithium iron phosphate battery pack, although precise range data is not available at this time.
It’s anticipated that Kia will likely introduce a dual-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD) variant in the future as well.
The new EV5 will be produced in Yacheng, China, by a joint venture between Kia and Yueda. While its manufacturing base is in China, the EV5 is not intended solely for the local market; it’s designed as a global electric vehicle and is likely to make its way to North America as well. As per the most recent information, the official unveiling of the Kia EV5 is scheduled for August 25 at the Chengdu Motor Show.
