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KIA UNVEILS NEW EVs AS CEO PLEDGES CITY CAR FOCUS

KIA UNVEILS NEW EVs AS CEO PLEDGES CITY CAR FOCUS

Kia’s Next Wave of Electric Vehicles and Innovations

Kia is gearing up for a new era in electric vehicle (EV) development, with plans to launch several models by the end of the decade. This includes an entry-level EV as well as a next-generation architecture that will support future versions of popular models like the EV6 and EV9. The brand continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, with the current EV3, EV6, and EV9 being joined this year by the EV4 and EV5, followed by the EV2 in 2026.

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In addition to these models, Kia is also working on new range-extender EV technology. The company remains committed to offering a wide range of vehicles, including hybrids and even internal combustion engine (ICE) models. This approach reflects Kia’s strategy to diversify beyond cars into vans and pick-ups for the first time.

Smaller Kias: Affordable Options for the Future

Kia’s president and CEO, Ho Sung Song, has emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable and accessible models. He confirmed that a smaller, entry-level EV is currently in development. While the Picanto city car remains on sale, it is not expected to be replaced immediately. The Picanto, which was heavily updated in 2023, continues to perform well in Europe, and Kia believes its strong electric vehicle range provides some relief from CO2 regulations that have affected other city cars.

Song mentioned that an entry-level electric model priced under £25,000 (approximately 995,000 baht) is a key focus for the company. It is likely that when the Picanto eventually reaches the end of its life—expected before the end of the decade—it will be replaced by this new EV. However, there is also a possibility that both the Picanto and the new EV could coexist, depending on how CO2 regulations evolve.

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Kia design director Karim Habib noted that the company is looking to Japanese brand Muji for inspiration. Muji’s focus on simplicity and utility aligns with Kia’s vision for its smaller cars. The goal is to “reduce things to their very essence” while still making them desirable. This approach also includes customization options, allowing customers to personalize basic designs according to their preferences.

Software-Defined Vehicles: A New Era in Automotive Technology

Kia is preparing to embrace software-defined vehicles (SDVs), which represent a shift from traditional automotive systems. SDVs centralize control, integrating core systems rather than relying on multiple subsystems. This approach enhances stability, reliability, and ease of updates across different models.

Song explained that the SDV architecture allows for decoupling hardware and software development, leading to shorter development cycles. Development on this new architecture has been ongoing for three years, with a pilot project concept potentially showcased next year. This refers to the “SDV Pace Car,” a development mule for the project.

The new 800V architecture is expected to underpin the next generation of the EV6 and EV9, with the latter set to debut by the end of the decade. Additional benefits of SDVs include more personalized user interfaces and frequent software updates, which can enhance the vehicle experience. According to Song, this approach could also reduce costs due to shorter development cycles.

Kia will also incorporate lessons learned from its new “PBV” van series into future car designs. The PV5, Kia’s first van, will be followed by the PV7 in 2027 and the PV9 in 2029.

Future Design: Innovation and Renewal

Kia is already planning a new evolution in its design philosophy. Song acknowledged the importance of staying ahead in the market and continuously innovating. He noted that current design philosophies have been in place for five years and that the company is focused on renewing its approach to keep customers engaged.

Habib confirmed that Kia will continue to showcase concept cars, with one expected to be unveiled later this year. While specific details remain undisclosed, the company remains committed to exploring new ideas and improvements for its future models.