Kia to “balance markets” with mid-size EV4 electric crossover and seven-seat EV7

Kia will follow up the imminent release of the electric EV6 SUV with a smaller, electric crossover under the name EV4 in Europe, and a larger electric SUV in the US, according to British media.

The report published on Saturday cites Kia’s European product boss Sjoerd Knipping, who reportedly told Auto Express that the South Korean brand wants to “balance” its markets.

This will involve the larger model referred to as “EVx” (that would likely eventually be called EV7 or EV8) and which would offer a seven-seat capacity and match fellow carmaker Hyundai’s planned Ioniq 7, heading to the US first.

While it would be followed there by the EV4, the smaller model would first be developed for the European market.

The EV4 will be built on the Hyundai-Kia Group’s E-GMP electric vehicle platform. Its dimensions will be closer to those of Kia’s upcoming European-spec fifth-generation Sportage SUV, thanks to a slightly shorter wheelbase than the EV6 which is 2,900mm.

The adaptable platform’s clever design will maximise cabin capacity with fewer compromises than a fossil-fuelled automobile thanks to the lack of engine. Even with a shorter wheelbase, the EV4 is expected to use the same battery technology as the EV6.

In the mid-size EV4 SUV, this means 58kWh and 77.4kWh batteries with a maximum range of slightly over 300 miles may be offered.

Dual-motor powertrains are also envisaged allowing four-wheel-drive capability, however a single-motor variant is also expected cutting the entry price.

The larger battery should charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, or provide 100km of range in just five minutes, according to the E-GMP setup’s 800-volt electronic architecture and maximum 350kW rapid-charging rate.

Kia holds nine trademarks for its EV series in Australia from EV1 to EV9.

We expect both the EV4 and EV7 will reach the Australian market at some point, but if Kia’s delay of the e-Niro due to lack of EV policy in Australia is anything to go by it is likely Kia’s Australian arm will have to defer to overseas markets first. We have reached out to Kia Australia for comment and will keep you posted.