Kia unveils ambitious EV plan: electric city car in 2027, large SUV in 2029

Kia goes full electric

That Kia has big plans in the field of electrification has long been clear. With the EV6 and EV9, the brand has now proven that it can build serious electric cars. But there is still quite a gap in the delivery program: an affordable entry-level car and a large family model. Those gaps are now being filled.

The brand confirms that an all-electric city car will be launched in 2027. This compact model should compete with cars such as the Citroën ë-C3 and the Renault 5 E-Tech. A large electric SUV will follow in 2029, either positioning itself above the EV9 in terms of size or addressing a different market segment.

Affordable electric city car

Kia’s electric city car is expected to be built on a new, cost-efficient platform within the Hyundai Motor Group. The goal is clear: to offer an EV that can compete in price with comparable fuel cars. Think of an entry-level price that could possibly be around 25,000 euros, although exact prices have not yet been confirmed.

Kia has previously hinted at compact models with concept cars and design studies. The city car is expected to have a range of about 300 to 400 kilometers, sufficient for daily use in and around town. Fast charging via 800V technology – as we know from the EV6 – could also be available in toned-down form.

Large electric SUV for families

At the other end of the spectrum will come a hefty electric SUV in 2029. Details are still scarce, but Kia seems to be aiming for the large family car segment with this. Think of it as a competitor to models like the Mercedes EQS SUV or the BMW iX, but with Kia’s signature competitive pricing.

The EV9 has shown that Kia is perfectly capable of putting down a premium SUV with room for seven occupants. An even larger or more luxurious model could further position the brand as a full-fledged alternative to the established premium brands.

City car especially interesting for the Netherlands

Of particular interest to the Dutch market is the electric city car. Compact EVs are popular here because of high fuel prices, limited parking options in cities and the extensive charging network.

Competition does not sleep

Kia is not alone in seeing the gap in the market. Volkswagen is working on the affordable ID.2, Renault has already launched the 5 E-Tech and Hyundai – sister brand of Kia – already has the Inster. Of course, there are also plenty of examples from China, such as the Leapmotor T03, Dongfeng Box and BYD Dolphin Surf.