As part of its electrification roadmap, Kia will be introducing born-electric BEVs as well as launch electric versions of its ICE models
Kia recently showcased EV5 Concept that appeared quite similar to Carens in terms of its design and size. Now, a new Kia test mule has been spotted in South Korea, which appears to be Carens electric. It is a close match to ICE-based Carens sold in India.
Kia Carens electric spied for the first time
As ICE Carens is already manufactured in India, the electric version could also be manufactured here. Carens has emerged as a popular MUV and there’s certainly scope for its electric version. Apart from India, Carens Electric could also be introduced in select Southeast Asian markets.
Side profile of the test mule is largely the same as existing Kia Carens sold in India. The positioning of the pillars, belt line, wheel arches and the slightly sloping roofline are some of the key similarities. Alloy wheels are specially designed for drag reduction. Core silhouette of front and rear section also appears to be same as ICE Carens. These sections are heavily camouflaged, so finer details are hard to guess.
Carens electric will be getting the usual set of updates to the front fascia, as is the case with conversions of ICE cars to electric. Changes to the front grille, air dam and lighting setup are likely. A similar treatment could be utilized for the rear section as well. Carens electric could also get some new colour options. ICE Carens is available in 8 monotone colour options.
Inside, Carens electric could be using a new colour theme and refreshed upholstery. Interiors could be spruced up to match the MUV’s electrified underpinnings. A significant percentage of features will be carried forward from ICE Carens.
It could include ventilated seats, premium BOSE sound system, wireless charging, ambient lighting, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, leatherette wrapped door trims and Kia Connect connected car tech. Carens electric could get an integrated infotainment and instrument cluster, something similar to that of EV5.
Kia Carens electric – battery and range specs
Kia Carens electric could have a range in the ballpark of 400-500 km. Details about battery pack and electric motor are not available, but overall performance is expected to be similar to ICE Carens. Just for comparison, Kia’s upcoming electric flagship EV9 has range of 541 km with the RWD Long Range variant. It has a 99.8 kWh battery pack and generates 201 hp of max power and 350 Nm of peak torque. EV9 AWD variant delivers 380 hp and 600 Nm. Kia Carens electric prices could be in the range of Rs 25 lakh to Rs 30 lakh.
Before Carens electric arrives here, Kia might be launching Carens facelift later this year. It is expected to get updates such as refreshed front fascia and ADAS. Inside, Carens facelift could be equipped with a new touchscreen infotainment system and instrument console. Panoramic sunroof option can be introduced with top-spec variants. Powertrain options will be same as earlier for Carens facelift.
Source
Source: Electric - rushlane.com
