Kia Philippines is set to launch the Kia EV6 early next year and the company has been busy laying the groundwork to support the Korean brand’s first car to be based on the company’s dedicated new platform for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Aside from physically bringing the units to the country together with all the marketing materials that come with a new nameplate launch, Kia service personnel are also being readied to be able to support the new vehicle. This includes not only product familiarity and know-how, but also the specialized tools they will need for diagnostics and monitoring.
Coming in Q1 of 2023 | Photo by Mika Fernandez-David
This push for electrification is also supported by other companies within the Ayala ecosystem which recently opened 21 strategically located Ayala Land Charging Hubs throughout Luzon with the target to ensure that EV users will always have a charging station nearby.
Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada at a recent event held at AC Motors Centrale in BGC | Photo by Mika Fernandez-David
“Our one true message to the public aims to open their eyes to the reality and potential of EVs, and that Kia Philippines is here to make EV ownership convenient, worry-free, and enjoyable,” said Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada. “When the public eventually embraces our EVs, then Kia Philippines also fulfills its social responsibility and solid commitment to sustainable mobility, sustainable energy, and a sustainable planet. Soon the Philippines will also reap the benefits of the environment-friendly shift towards greener motoring.”
As with any new technology comes fears and uncertainties. At the recent media round table discussion hosted by Kia, they presented, and busted, myths that surround EVs in general, and why they think the country is ready for BEVs.
Myth #1: Long Charging Time
An executive who travels an average of 50km (a fraction of the EV6’s 528km range) to and from work daily, typically spends 10 hours at home to rest and sleep. It is during this time that the EV6 can be left to charge. Depending on the kind of charger used, an EV6 can reach a 100% charge (from 10%) in 90 minutes using a 7kW AC charger, or in 50 minutes with an 11kW AC charger. Even faster charging is possible at DC charging stations. Using a 50kW DC fast charger will allow EV6 users to reach 80% (from 10%) in 73 minutes; while using a 350kW 800V DC charger would only take 18 minutes.
Myth #2: Limited Charging Stations
Ayala Land reinforces its commitment to sustainable and responsible property development with the activation of over 21 EV fast-charging stations. These 22-kW AC and 60-kW DC fast chargers allow EV users to fully charge their vehicles as fast as 2 hours. This is in keeping with the company’s thrust and long-term commitment toward carbon neutrality and alignment with the global and local directive to shift to electric vehicles.
Myth #3: Limited Range
The EV6 GT-Line offers a fully-electric, zero-emission powertrain configuration with a long-range (77.4 kWh) high-voltage battery pack. The EV6 can travel over 500km on a single charge (based on EPA rating). This range is worth highlighting, as the 21 Ayala Land Charging Hubs rolled out are strategically located so as to ensure that EV users will always have a charging station nearby. Even trips to Baguio City from Metro Manila (251km) are possible and should quell any range-anxiety concerns (based on internal test runs).
Myth #4: High Cost of Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance costs, it is more affordable to maintain an EV because it doesn’t require any engine oils, transmission fluids, and other lubricants that are required by cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE). The savings are significant.
Over the course of five years, for example, an EV6 will only need brake pads, brake fluid, AC filters, and wiper blades. This will amount to Php 25,000. For comparison’s sake, a midsize SUV (ICE) will need engine oil, filters, fluids, brake pads, wiper blades, belts, and coolants. Over five years, this will amount to roughly Php 110,000.
And then there is the equivalent in fuel costs. The EV6’s range is rated at 528km at 77KwH. This range can be achieved with just Php 800 when charging at home against Php 2,400 fuel cost of a midsize SUV (ICE) covering a similar distance.
Myth #5: Safety Concerns
The EV6 is the recipient of accolades which include the European Car of the Year 2022 Award and a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating. Its safety features include Auto Emergency Braking Technology; Blind Spot Detection Technology; Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist; Lane Keeping & Following Assist Technology; Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go; Highway Driving Assist; Safe Exit Assist; and 360-degree surround view camera.
The Battery Management System (which is mounted low to the ground and on the floor) utilizes Lithium-Ion battery cells. These are enclosed and resistant to large water splashes. This casing system has been given an IP 66 international rating. This rating is one of the most commonly used electrical enclosures with plastic hinges and waterproof gaskets. The EV6 is also equipped with a water-sensing system. In the unlikely event of water intrusion, it automatically shuts off the EV system if water exposure is beyond safety standards.
For peace of mind, Kia Philippines has systems in place to diagnose whether an EV6 has been exposed to flooding. EV6-specific equipment is available to address any of these concerns. The EV6 is also supported with parts availability and world-class trained technicians.
As with any product that uses new technology, early adapters have the advantage of being a pioneer, but naturally, it comes at a price. New technology is expensive but invariably becomes more affordable when the parts and processes become more mainstream and widespread. While future-proofing is always a concern, especially with high-ticket items, there will always be limitations due to the nature of the products and new requirements that arise as the technology evolves. With the electrification age upon us and all the data available, will you be a pioneer or will you hold out until it is inevitable?