Kia’s small electric SUV, EV5, in NZ for testing

The small electric SUV, the Kia EV5, is in New Zealand for testing before the launch. Photo: Kia

The first example of the latest addition to the Kia new model portfolio, the new EV5, has landed in New Zealand for local testing and evaluation ahead of its anticipated launch in the middle of the year.

More than 20 Research and Development engineers from seven different departments from Kia Head Office are participating in extensive local engineering testing, demonstrating the marque’s commitment to ensuring local product functionality.

From a product perspective, the new model shares Kia’s acclaimed ‘Opposites United’ design language with the marque’s largest fully electric vehicle, the multi-award-winning, seven-seat Kia EV9.

“The EV9 has enjoyed a great response since the launch in New Zealand late last year,” said Managing Director of Kia New Zealand, Todd McDonald.

“The EV9 is laden with technology, offers impressive range and performance, plus a spacious interior thanks to the Electric Global Modular Platform which provides Kia designers the ability to produce a vehicle interior that is free from traditional restrictions.

“These same characteristics and features will be found in the EV5, albeit in a slightly smaller package, so we expect it to have particular appeal for families who want an innovative, fast charging and attractive fully electric vehicle.”

Aimed at a smaller SUV segment than EV9, the new EV5 will offer two rows of seats for five people, whereas the EV9 will continue as one of the few EV’s available with seating for seven.

A new EV5 section of the Kia New Zealand website goes live next week, so people who want to be the first to know about local details relating to the new model are invited to visit the site and register their interest.