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    2024 World Car Awards Current Contenders: Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, Kia EV9

    India-bound Kia EV92024 World Car Awards -Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and Kia EV9 Battle for SupremacyHyundai IONIQ 5 N and Kia EV9 stand as top contenders in the 2024 World Car Awards. Both vehicles have been recognised among the top three finalists in different categories. Electric vehicles (EVs) have witnessed a remarkable shift in perception and acceptance in recent years. And signal a significant transition in the automotive industry. Once considered a niche market, EVs are now embraced as the way forward in the commuter transportation ecosystem.Hyundai IONIQ 5 N: Racing Towards VictoryHyundai Motor’s IONIQ 5 N has earned its place as a finalist for the 2024 World Performance Car. Demonstrating Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicles. Building on the success of its predecessors, the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, which secured triple titles in previous years. IONIQ 5 N represents a new era of high-performance EVs.Hyundai IONIQ 5 NIntroduced in July 2023, IONIQ 5 N embodies Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). And integrates motorsport-bred technologies, setting new standards for electric vehicles. Its nomination recognises Hyundai’s dedication to innovation and excellence in the global automotive industry.Kia EV9: Redefining Excellence in Electric SUVKia EV9 has been selected as a finalist in two prestigious categories: World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle. Kia’s flagship all-electric SUV, EV9 epitomises sleek design, versatility, and advanced EV tech. EV9’s nomination highlights Kia’s commitment to delivering groundbreaking vehicles that cater to the evolving needs of consumers. Boasting a spacious three-row layout and modern design elements, EV9 is a compelling proposition – a blend of style, performance, and sustainability.Electrifying the Auto Industry: Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, Kia EV9Advancements in EV technology, including longer driving ranges, faster charging times, and enhanced performance capabilities makes them more appealing to consumers. Resultantly, traditional automotive manufacturers and new entrants alike are investing heavily in electric vehicle development. A true representation of global trend towards electrification.With each passing year, electric vehicles are solidifying their position as key players in the automotive market. They offer not only environmental benefits but also top-notch performance and driving experiences. Consumers too are becoming more conscious of their carbon footprint and the importance of sustainability. Sales trajectory of electric vehicles points towards continued growth, innovation, and global acceptance.The Future is Electric: 2024 World Car Awards FinalistsThe recognition of both the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and the Kia EV9 underscores the increasing significance of electric vehicles in the automotive landscape. As finalists in the 2024 World Car Awards, they represent the forefront of innovation and excellence in their respective categories. Governments and policymakers are incentivising the transition to electric vehicles. This is made possible through tax breaks, subsidies, and stringent emissions regulations, further driving their popularity.Winners of the 2024 World Car Awards will be revealed at a ceremony during the New York International Auto Show on March 27, 2024. A global stage that further solidifies the impact of these remarkable vehicles on the automotive industry. More

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    Kia EV9 Electric SUV Spotted Undisguised In India – Launch Soon

    Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedUnderpinned by the E-GMP platform, Kia’s flagship electric SUV EV9 is available in both RWD and e-AWD formatsAfter launching EV6 in 2022, Kia is looking to further expand its EV portfolio. The flagship EV9 electric SUV has been spotted on road tests for the first time in India. Just like the EV6, the EV9 will enter India via the CBU route. Launch price could be around Rs 80 lakh for the base trim.Kia EV9 – Massive street presenceBeing 5,015 mm long, 1,980 mm wide and 1,780 mm tall, Kia EV9 will dwarf most other cars on the road. Wheelbase is 3,100 mm, which ensures roomy interiors and plentiful boot space. The SUV has a bold character, with sculpted panelling all across. Some of the key highlights include cube LED headlamps with Z-shaped DRLs, closed-off grille and prominent bumper.Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedSide profile has polygonal wheel arches, sporty 21-inch alloy wheels, thick body cladding, functional roof rails and door-mounted ORVMs with integrated turn signals. At rear, the primary attraction is the star map LED tail lamps. Rear wiper is neatly hidden beneath the rear spoiler, ensuring a clutter free profile.Kia EV9 interiorsKia EV9 offers premium features on the inside such as three zone climate control, heated and ventilated front and second row seats, automatic defog system, electronic rear view mirror with full display, heated steering wheel, regenerative braking paddle shifters and height adjustable smart power tailgate.Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedInterior space is highly customizable with 60:40 Split Remote Folding 2nd Row Seats with Headrests and 50:50 Split Remote Folding 3rd Row Seats with Headrests. Second row seats have swivel function, which adds versatility to the interiors. There are intelligently designed storage spaces and USB charging ports for all passengers.[embedded content]Kia EV9 is tech-heavy with features such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a 12.3-inch driver display screen and a 5.3-inch climate control screen. Other key highlights include digital key, fingerprint recognition, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, USB-C ports, wireless phone charger and OTA updates. A comprehensive range of active and passive safety features including ADAS are available with Kia EV9.Kia EV9 performance, rangeBased on their needs, users can choose from three powertrain options. Base RWD variant is equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery, connected to a 215 hp single electric motor. Range is 230 miles (approx. 370 km). The long-range variant of Kia EV9 has a 99.8 kWh battery, connected to a 201 hp single electric motor. Range is 304 miles (approx. 489 km). Users can also choose the dual-motor variant that delivers 379 hp of max power. Range is 280 miles (approx. 450 km).Kia EV9 comes with both fixed and portable charging options. Fast charging is supported, allowing users to load 154 miles (248 km) in just 15 minutes. With the fast charger, 10% to 80% can be achieved in just 24 minutes. The SUV also has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability that can be used to charge various tools and equipment.Source More

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    Kia K-Charge introduced Across 1,000 charging stations in India

    Kia K-Charge ServicesK-Charge services are offered via the ‘MyKia’ app, are free for 3 months for Kia customers and can also be availed by non-Kia customersOne of the major concerns of an electric vehicle user is its range. Range anxieties or being caught out of battery power has deterred many a buyer, steering them towards the more tried and tested petrol/diesel powered vehicles. Lack of ample electric charging stations, especially in rural and semi urban areas are a major concern that needs to be tackled prior to the wholehearted acceptance of EVs in the country.Kia India introduces K-Charge Charging Initiative Accessibility for Every EV UserKia India has announced a special charging initiative with K-Charge being offered for users of the EV6 electric vehicle in India. This new K-Charge initiative is being offered across 1000+ charging stations in the country. This initiative will be offered to all Kia customers free of charge for 3 months while non Kia customers can also avail of the services.Kia India’s K-Charge can be accessed via the ‘MyKia’ App and is done by NumoCity Technologies – a leading CMS service provider. It will help to alleviate EV users range anxieties. This facility is also an industry first where it is also being offered to non-Kia users and via Relux Charging Stations in a special tie up for free 3 months charging to Kia EV6 owners.For the K-Charge services, Kia India has partnered with CPOs (Charge Point Operators) – Statiq, Charge Zone, Relux Electric, Lion Charge and E-Fill chargers to expand EV infrastructure. K-Charge offers the following services via the MyKia App. It aids EV users to access a range of EV services, view and locate charging stations through a Made-in-India map service provider – Map My India, check charging slots and locate the closest charging station.New Kia EV6Payments can also be made via the wallet service within the app. K-Charge offers several benefits to customers. Apart from allowing them more confidence in terms of range, the facility also removes the need to rely on external applications thereby enhancing the vehicle ownership experience.Kia India K-Charge ConvenienceThe Kia EV6, is currently the only electric vehicle in the company portfolio as on date even as the EV5 electric SUV has also made its debut in August 2023with an expected launch in January 2025. With the ‘EV for All,’ initiative, Kia India is aiming to achieve annual sales target of one million EVs by 2026. It will take this expansion plan further to target 1.6 million units annually by 2030.The Kia EV6 facelift is also on test, debut of which could take place in early 2024. Though under heavy camouflage, the new EV6 is sure to come in with some feature update which could include dual-tone alloy wheels, new headlight and taillight clusters along with some new exterior colour options. It will, however, continue to draw power via the same 77.4 kWh battery pack mated to electric motors which on the RWD version offers 266 hp power and 350 Nm torque going up to 321 hp and 605 Nm on the AWD version. Claimed range is at 708 kms on full charge.Words from the manufacturerAs stated by Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing – “K-Charge is not just a convenience initiative for our customers but a step towards making sustainable mobility convenient and accessible for everyone. We strongly believe that the technology transition towards a complete EV future ought to be smooth, and the K-Charge, integrated into the ‘MyKia’ app, is a well-thought-out step in that direction.With this aim, we will continue our efforts towards expanding the charging network through the onboarding of new CPOs in the future. We are confident that seamless, user-friendly solutions like these will play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in India.” More

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    Kia EV5 Launched In China At Rs 17.30 Lakh – XUV.e8, Harrier EV Rival

    Kia EV5 Launched In ChinaAs part of its plan to make EVs available to everyone, Kia has launched the brand new EV5 mid-size electric SUVKia has aggressive plans for the EV segment at the global scale. It has the blueprint of a dedicated lineup of new electric vehicles, from EV1 to EV9. Some of these like EV6 and EV9 are already on sale. And now, Kia has launched the EV5 in China. EV5 is Kia’s first global strategic model to be introduced in China.Kia EV5 launched in ChinaKia has announced the launch of EV5 at the ongoing 21st China Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. EV5 prices start at 149,800 yuan, which is approximately USD 20,800 or Rs 17.30 lakh. The prices are around 10,000 yuan (1,400 USD) lower than the pre-sales prices. Kia had opened pre-sales for EV5 in China earlier this year in August.At that time, starting price was announced at 159,800 yuan (22,100 USD). It makes sense, as China is a safe bet for any EV manufacturer. The country has emerged as the largest electric car market in the world. With leadership in battery production and related technologies, China has witnessed faster adoption of electric vehicles in comparison to other regions of the world.Kia EV5 will play a key role in helping the company achieve its EV goals. Kia has set a target of selling one million electric vehicles per year by 2026. This number will increase to 1.6 million units per annum by the end of this decade. EV5 is affordably priced and is expected to generate significant sales volumes. It will soon be available in other markets as well. EV5 is positioned as a family-oriented SUV, offering an optimal mix of performance, range and hi-tech features.Kia EV5 specs and featuresKia EV5 is underpinned by the E-GMP platform. This is a dedicated EV platform that has spawned several of Kia and Hyundai’s new-gen models. EV5 in China has a 64.2 kWh battery pack that supplies power to a 160-kW motor. The battery pack has LFP chemistry and is supplied by China-based manufacturer BYD. Variants with the 64.2 kWh battery have a certified range of 530 km.EV5 long-range version is equipped with an 88-kWh battery pack. The motor is the same 160 kW unit with both models. Certified range extends to 720 km. Kia has yet to reveal the price for the long-range model. Earlier this year, Kia had also announced a long-range AWD model. However, it is not certain if that variant will be introduced in China. EV5 is fitted with a dedicated heat pump system that reduces the risk of battery-related fire incidents.Kia EV5 has an attractive visual styling and packs in a comprehensive range of features. Interiors follow a minimalistic design language, which enhances the sense of space and comfort. Features that instantly grab one’s attention include the integrated dual screens and the four-spoke steering wheel with a gear lever.Kia EV5 DashboardUsers can feel confident about safety, as EV5 is offering a comprehensive range of features including ADAS. Safety kit includes 7-airbags, L2+ level assisted driving, remote control smart parking and semi-automatic lane changing. More

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    Kia Trademarked EV1 To EV9 In India – EV3 Spotted Testing?

    Kia EV9 – For reference onlyThe trademarks filed in India for Kia’s upcoming EVs start from the smallest EV1 and goes till flagship EV9With rapid electrification across global markets, Kia is busy ramping up its EV portfolio. These new-gen EVs like EV6, EV9 and upcoming EV5 are in addition to other Kia electric cars that share their platform with their ICE-powered counterparts. Some examples include Niro EV and Soul EV. Here in India, Kia currently offers only the EV6 electric SUV.Kia Trademarked EV1 To EV9 In India – Launch confirmed?That said, the South Korean company has trademarked all nine electric vehicles it intends to launch in the future. Of these nine, EV6 has already launched in India and we’re likely to get Kia EV4 which was spotted testing recently. These trademarks from Kia show ‘Protection Granted’ as their status, indicating that there are launch intentions.The flagship EV9 has been launched in a few markets and EV5 has broken covers more recently. EV6 is the first of these vehicles to launch. Based on these vehicles, we can have a certain idea as to where the rest of these cars fall in terms of size. In this sense, Kia EV1 will be the smallest of this lot and could be an electric hatchback.Probably matching size of a Picanto hatchback (3.6m length) sold globally. Picanto is Kia’s counterpart of Hyundai i10, sold as Grand i10 in India. EV2 may be close to Hyundai Exter’s dimensions. We’re talking about around 3.8m to 3.9m in length and a crossover DNA. EV3 might be a bridge between sub 4m and compact-size vehicles.Kia EV1, Kia EV2, Kia EV3, Kia EV4 trademarksHow many will launch in India?We’re talking about a Kia Soul EV sized vehicle with around 4.2m length. This makes EV4 a Seltos-sized EV with around 4.4m length that will be Kia’s counterpart of upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, already been spotted in testing multiple times. As we go higher up Kia’s naming scheme hierarchy, we reach recently unveiled Kia EV5 SUV which measures 4,615 mm in length.Kia EV6 crossover has been out for a long time and measures 4,695 mm in length. However, Kia EV9 is the recently launched flagship and measures 5,015mm in length, similar to Kia Telluride SUV. This leaves Kia EV7 and EV8 in the mystery and one of those is likely to be a mid-size sedan that may be Kia’s counterpart of Inoniq 6 sedan measuring around 4.8m to 4.9m in length.Kia EV3 spotted testing? Or is it Kia EV4?The South Korean brand is testing a new EV that will slot below the recently unveiled EV5. Test mules have been spotted abroad and show a vehicle bearing proportions close to a Seltos and may bear EV4 name when launched. EV3 must be in development already and might boast a similar size as Soul EV. EV4 test mule spotted testing is very different from Soul EV in its construction.Kia EV5, Kia EV7, Kia EV8, Kia EV9 trademarksIn this sense, Soul EV had steeply raked A-pillars along with a squared-off tail section. Kia EV4 (supposedly) test mules show swoopy A-pillars with a more conventional tail section with quite a bit more body behind rear doors than on Soul EV. Reminds us more of a Seltos.Hints of ‘Opposites United’ design language are evident along with Kia EV line signature asymmetrical wheel patterns. Powertrains are likely to be shared with upcoming Hyundai Creta electric, probably based on a new platform and not E-GMP.New Kia EV4 electric SUV vs Seltos More

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    Kia EV9 Base Model Price Announced – USD 54,900, (Rs. 45.66 Lakh)

    Kia EV9 eSUV is the most affordable 7 seat electric SUV of its size in the USAKia has announced pricing for base models of its 2024 EV9 electric SUV. The concept was shown at 2023 Auto Expo, Delhi. Designed as a flagship electric vehicle, it’s built on a new dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). As per the announced price, base-spec Kia EV9 Light RWD trim becomes a sensational proposition.Kia EV9 Base Model – VFM base trim?Pricing for base-spec Kia EV9 is USD 54,900 which roughly translates to Rs. 45.66 lakh with today’s exchange rates. This pricing doesn’t include Kia’s destination charge in USA which could add an additional USD 1,320. Said models are likely to be manufactured in South Korea and then shipped to USA.India launch is likely, considering the brand expressed interest and showcased it at 2023 Auto Expo. If Kia brings EV9 to India via CBU route, we can easily expect prices close to double the US pricing. Apart from base Light RWD trim with 76.1 kWh battery, Kia EV9 has Light Long Range, Wind, Land and GT-Line trim levels, all of which pack a bigger 99.8 kWh battery. Pricing for these will be revealed at a later date.What does base Light RWD trim bring to the table?Kia EV9 base Light RWD trim offers a single motor powertrain setup as the name suggests. This motor packs 215 bhp of power and 350 Nm of torque. This single motor draws power from a 76.1 kWh battery pack that has a claimed range of around 359 km on a single charge.Kia EV9 Light RWD 19-inch wheelsLight RWD trim has similar exterior design attributes as other trims and rides on smaller 19-inch wheels. This E-GMP modular platform brings 800V architecture that enables DC fast charging capabilities. Kia claims 10% to 80% SOC takes around 25 minutes, which is impressive.The SUV’s design borrows cues from Kia’s EV range while bearing a strong resemblance to the Kia Telluride. In a way, Kia EV9 is of similar size as Telluride. It measures 5,008 mm in length and has an impressive 3,099 mm long wheelbase. For context, Kia EV9 has a slightly longer wheelbase than upcoming Mercedes-Benz E Class LWB.India launch on the cards?Interiors feature a 2+2+2 seating arrangement, with the second-row seats swivelling 180 degrees to face the third-row seats. Twin 12.3-inch horizontal screens for infotainment and instrumentation take centre stage. On the outside, geometric alloy wheel design, massive LED DRLs, LED headlights, twin sunroofs, closed Tiger-nose grill, upright stance, flush door handles are notable elements.Kia EV9 dual sunroof setupEV9 comes with advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Pricing for higher trims could go up till $73,000 (Rs 60.2 lakh). When launched in India, Kia EV9 will go against Mercedes-Benz EQB 3-row SUV priced at around Rs. 77.5 lakh (ex-sh). More

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    2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUV Debuts – Up To 600 Kms Range

    2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUVAs per leaked homologation documents, Kia EV5 unveiled, will pack in a large battery and single motor layout with up to 310 Nm peak torqueFollowing the EV trend, Kia and Hyundai have introduced a number of products to keep up with the growing global electric vehicle market. Future EV production may increase in order to meet goals for net zero carbon emissions. Kia has introduced a new addition to their global lineup – EV5. Most design attributes from EV5 concept make it to production model.Through official photos, Kia is giving a sneak peek at the EV5. This is Kia’s third e-GMP EV and the company unveiled it at the Chengdu Motor Show. This electrified model might eventually arrive in India, where it will sit above the Seltos EV.2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUVKia EV5 unveiled – Is it electrified Carens?As per leaked homologation documents, Kia EV5 is 4615 mm long, 1875 mm wide, 1715 mm tall, and has a 2750 mm wheelbase. Kerb weight is listed as 1870 kg. There seems to be a single motor layout. This motor from Vitesco Automotive Electronics (Tianjin) Co packs 160 kW (218 bhp) and 310 Nm of peak torque.There may be two versions of Kia EV5, one for China with an LFP battery produced by Xiangyang Fudi Battery Co., Ltd. (also known as FinDreams), a wholly-owned subsidiary of BYD. The global version may reportedly feature an 82 kWh NMC battery pack with a claimed range of up to 600 km.2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUVSame design language as flagship EV9The recently unveiled Kia EV5 shares the same design language as the company’s flagship electric SUV, the EV9. Some of these design elements are also incorporated in Kia’s smaller EV4. The SUV’s stance and proportions lend it a rugged appearance. Front fascia is futuristic yet minimalistic in appearance. 3D LED DRLs with ‘Signature Star Map Lighting’ add a sophisticated touch.2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUVSide profile features strong lines and funky aero wheels, and the rear takes design cues from EV6. Kia offers a choice of nine glossy colours with EV5 and one Matte Ivory Silver. The nine glossy ones are Magma Red, Starry Night Black, Ivory Silver, Clear White, Snow White Pearl, Iceberg Green, Tide Blue, Frost Blue and Shale Grey. 2024 Kia EV5 Electric SUVUpholstery options for the base model include two woven fabrics and synthetic leather. Interiors have four color options and five seat pattern options. Inside, there is 64-color ambient lighting that includes features such as high-speed warning. Launch will take place next year. If launched in India, it could be priced in the Rs 40-50 lakh price bracket. More

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    Kia EV4 Spied For First Time – Compact Electric SUV (Seltos, Creta Size)

    New Kia EV4 electric SUV spiedKia EV4 electric SUV will take on the likes of Maruti EVX and Mahindra BE.05 upon launchIn recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a monumental shift towards sustainability and electrification. As the world grapples with the environmental challenges posed by traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, automakers are stepping up their game to introduce innovative and eco-friendly alternatives. Among these forward-thinking manufacturers is Kia, a brand renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge technology and design.We know about the 11 EVs that Kia showcased in November 2021. Out of these eleven new models, Kia had promised some derivatives of existing petrol / diesel powered cars and some will be dedicated EVs built on all new platform. To be more precise, 3 dedicated and 1 derivative passenger EVs, 4 dedicated and 2 derivative recreational EVs and 1 derivative commercial EV.New Kia EV4 electric SUV spiedKia EV4 Spied Testing For First TimeAs of now, Kia has launched Niro EV, Soul EV and EV6 across multiple markets. Kia showcased production model of EV9 (Telluride equivalent) and teased concept model of EV5, which will sit below the EV6. Ahead of global debut of Kia EV5, which is set for later this month, a new test mule of Kia has been spied in South Korea. This is believed to be the upcoming Kia EV4.Kia EV4 will sit below the Kia EV5. Looking at the spy shots, this test mule looks very much similar in size to the Seltos compact SUV that is on sale in India. This new test mule has almost the same windscreen, A-pillars, ORVMs, bonnet and even front doors. However, there are different LED DRL signatures with both vehicles.New Kia EV4 electric SUV vs SeltosWheels are starkly different too. Kia EV4 sports aero wheels to maximise efficiency. Apart from that we can see cutouts for front parking sensors and a radar module for ADAS suite. Rear is where we see stark differences with both models. For starters, rear doors are different because of rear roofline shape. Rear gets a sleek LED signature for tail lights that take up almost half of tailgate. These tail lights match Kia’s design language used with its EVs like EV6.New Kia EV4 electric SUV vs SeltosInteriors, Safety featuresOn the inside, expect a minimalistic approach with less buttons and more screens. Layout will be modern with intelligent usage of space aiming to deliver maximum possible roominess and comfort in the segment. Expect the interior design to be inspired by the EV6.Other features on offer could be a high-resolution infotainment system that offers seamless smartphone integration, navigation, over-the-air updates, and access to real-time vehicle information. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) enhance safety by providing features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated emergency braking.Kia EV4 Battery Pack and RangeKia EV4 is likely to feature around 50 kWh to 60 kWh battery pack delivering a claimed range of about 500 km on a single charge. To keep prices competitive, expect a single motor layout, driving the front wheels. This same powertrain and battery pack could be used to power the upcoming Creta EV, which has already been spied testing in India. Potential rivals to the upcoming Kia EV4 include a range of upcoming EVs like Creta EV, Maruti Suzuki eVX, Mahindra BE.05, etc. Launch expected in 2025.Source More