After the announcement of the end of the production of the Chevrolet Bolt, here is the end for the Kia Soul EV.
A representative of Kia Canada announced the news. This model was not marketed in the United States since the beginning of the second generation in 2020. It is at the end of 2023 that the current version will not be renewed. However, the gasoline-powered Kia Soul will remain on the market.
Low numbers
The Kia Soul EV had an entry price of $43,095. The first generation’s performance numbers weren’t the best, with 134 horsepower, 291 pound-feet of torque and a 39.2 kWh battery offering a 248 km range. The second generation has 201 horsepower and a 64 kWh battery for a range of 383 km.
The alternatives for the Kia Soul EV
The Kia EV6 has certainly contributed to the demise of the Soul EV, a car that is improved in every way, more modern, more powerful, taking place on Hyundai’s new e-GMP electric platform. Power is up to 577 horsepower and range is up to 499 km. In addition, all-wheel drive is available on this vehicle. At this point, the relevance of the Kia Soul EV in the automotive market was no longer existent.
To add to that, there is also the Kia Niro EV that tipped the scales. This small, front-wheel drive SUV boasts a 201 horsepower engine and a 64.8 kWh battery, with a range of 407 km. A battery temperature control system is available to help maximize its efficiency in cold weather. Also, the battery can be used as a generator to recharge or power appliances, an option not available on the EV6. With a similar price tag to the Kia Soul EV, a starting price of $44,995, and very similar features, it’s now clear why this is the end of the Soul EV, with its counterparts offering many more benefits and technologies to match.
The announcement of the end of the Kia Soul EV now gives way to renewal for the Korean brand. In the near future, these models will be followed by the EV5 and EV9. Kia is in a good position to offer a varied and relevant range of electric vehicles.
With information from the Guide de l’Auto.