Kia EV2 Debuts as a New Entry-Level Electric Crossover for Europe

Kia has unveiled the EV2, a compact electric crossover designed to lower the barrier to EV ownership in Europe. Positioned below the EV3 and EV4, the EV2 is set to become Kia’s most affordable electric vehicle, targeting urban drivers and value-focused buyers as competition intensifies in the sub-€30,000 EV segment.

With pricing expected to start at around €30,000 (approximately $35,000), the EV2 enters a rapidly expanding market of small, affordable electric crossovers aimed at everyday use rather than long-distance touring.

A New Contender in Europe’s Budget EV Segment

The Kia EV2 slots into Europe’s B-segment electric crossover category, where it will compete with models such as the Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, and Volkswagen’s upcoming ID. Polo Cross.

As European consumers increasingly demand lower-cost EVs with practical range, the EV2 reflects a broader industry shift toward affordability and efficiency. Kia’s strategy appears clear: expand EV adoption by offering smaller, simpler vehicles without stripping away essential features.

Battery Options and Real-World Range

Built on a 400-volt version of Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the EV2 will be offered exclusively with a single front-mounted electric motor and two battery configurations.

• Standard Range: 42.2 kWh battery, estimated 197 miles (317 km WLTP)

• Long Range: 61 kWh battery, estimated 278 miles (448 km WLTP)

While these figures place the EV2 firmly in the city-focused category, they are competitive for daily commuting and short regional travel. DC fast charging is standard, with both versions capable of charging from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes, though Kia has not disclosed peak charging power.

Charging Designed for European Drivers

One of the EV2’s standout features is its 11 kW and optional 22 kW AC charging capability, which is uncommon in this segment. This reflects how many European EV owners rely on high-power home or workplace chargers.

With 22 kW AC charging, the Standard Range model can fully recharge in just over 2.5 hours, while the Long Range version takes roughly three hours. This focus on AC charging convenience aligns well with urban and suburban ownership patterns.

Compact Size, Flexible Interior

The EV2 measures 159.9 inches (4,060 mm) in length and 70.8 inches (1,800 mm) in width, making it slightly larger than Hyundai’s Inster EV, though the two vehicles are built on different platforms.

Inside, buyers can choose between a five-seat layout or a four-seat configuration with sliding and reclining rear seats. Cargo capacity varies by configuration, with up to 14.2 cubic feet (403 liters) available in the rear, plus a small front trunk for charging cables.

The cabin features Kia’s ccNC Lite infotainment system, displayed across a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a separate climate control display. Over-the-air software updates are supported, though navigation map updates are excluded to keep costs down.

Safety, Design, and Production Plans

Styling follows Kia’s “Opposites United” design language, with a boxy silhouette, vertical daytime running lights, and wheel options ranging from 16 to 19 inches.

Standard safety technology includes Highway Driving Assist 2, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and digital key access using NFC, Bluetooth, and UWB.

Production will take place at Kia’s Žilina plant in Slovakia, alongside the EV4. The Standard Range EV2 enters production in February, with Long Range and GT-Line variants following in June, ahead of European market deliveries later in the year.

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