Kia displays EV5 and Sonet SUVs for Chinese market | Autocar Professional

The Kia EV5, an all-electric compact SUV, is the first dedicated EV platform model to be produced locally in China. Building upon the success of the EV6 and EV9, the EV5 is Kia’s third dedicated EV built upon the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), lauded for its modular design and exceptional adaptability.

The Chinese market will get three variations of the EV5: standard, long-range, and long-range AWD. The long-range model, featuring an 88.1-kWh battery and 160-kW motor, is expected to achieve a range of 720km per charge. The long-range AWD model will feature a combined output of 233 kW.

The EV5 is equipped with a number of customer-driven features including relaxation seats with massage functions, a console-integrated refrigerator/warmer and a multi-table luggage board.

The new model also comes with Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), which helps drivers maintain distance from the vehicle in front, stay centered in their lane, change lanes, and adjust lateral positioning. With a touch of the Kia Digital Key 2 smart key, customers can activate the EV5’s Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2) system, which enables the SUV to park itself without the need for driver intervention, whether in or out of the vehicle.

Kia also took the covers off the new Kia Sonet for the Chinese market. The Sonet is equipped with smart and sophisticated features, including Smart Driving System, Forward-Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). The model also offers a 10.25-inch dual color screen and Baidu Connect 3.0, offering passengers greater levels of engagement.

Kia also introduced the Universal Wheel Drive System (‘Uni Wheel’). This is a functionally integrated wheel drive system that dramatically improves available space inside an EV by moving the main drive system components to the vacant space within the wheel hub. In doing so, Kia has designed a completely new structure for the drive system.

Furthermore, Kia announced its intention to develop L4 Smart Driving technology for the Chinese market. The company is currently conducting in-depth testing in different parts of China to ensure high performance in all driving conditions.