South Korean unveiling of Kia's new electric vehicle, EV5
Kia Corporation has entered the electric vehicle (EV) market with its latest offering, the EV5, a compact SUV that marks the South Korean automaker's fifth purpose-built battery electric vehicle (BEV). The EV5 is now in production in Gwangju, South Korea, and has been sold locally and exported to Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand for over a year.
The EV5 is built using Hyundai Motor Group's Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), a versatile architecture designed to underpin a wide range of EV models. This platform allows the EV5 to boast a spacious interior and 965 litres of luggage space, making it an ideal choice for families.
Powering the EV5 is an 81.4 kWh NCM battery pack and a 160-kilowatt front-wheel-drive motor. Prices for the EV5 start at KRW 48.55 million (US$ 34,800) for the EV5 Air model, with the EV5 Earth model costing KRW 52.3 million and the EV5 GT-Line at KRW 53.4 million.
The South Korean version of the EV5 features design and safety features tailored to local consumer requirements and regulations. Sales of the EV5 are launching in South Korea, followed by Europe, Canada, and the US, starting in early 2026.
Kia's entry into the EV market is not just a step forward for the company, but also a significant move for the automotive industry as a whole. The EV5, along with its BEV siblings (EV3, EV4, EV6, and EV9), represents Kia's commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
In recognition of these achievements, Kia Corporation has entered the Just Auto Excellence Awards. This prestigious event celebrates innovation, leadership, and impact in the automotive industry, providing a platform for companies to showcase their achievements, elevate their industry profile, and position themselves among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements.
It is worth noting that the battery cells for the EV5 are produced by China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Limited (CATL), a leading global supplier of battery cells for electric vehicles.
The EV5's entry into the market is set to shake up the compact SUV segment, offering a spacious, affordable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol and diesel vehicles. As Kia continues to expand its BEV lineup, it is clear that the future of mobility is electric.
