Kia Philippines today launched the brand’s much-awaited electric vehicle (EV), the Kia EV6. Since its global debut, the Kia EV6 has racked up awards and gained international recognition not only because of its design but also because of its cutting-edge technology. Notable accolades include the 2022 iF Design Award, the 2022 Red Dot Award, the 2022 European Car of the Year, and US Car of the Year.
“It is truly our honor to introduce this latest innovation by Kia: A sustainable car with zero emissions and a step toward Kia’s ambitious yet important transition into a future mobility solutions brand,” said Kia Philippines’ President Manny Aligada. “Our one true message to the public aims to open their eyes to the reality and potential of Fully Electric Vehicles, and that Kia PH is here to make EV ownership convenient, worry-free, and enjoyable.”
“We made sure to put the charging architecture in place long before the arrival of the EV6,” says Ayala Corporation President and CEO Bong Consing. “Our strategically located charging stations are proof of our commitment to electrification. We are using the whole Ayala ecosystem to support the growth and adoption of EVs in the Philippines. We expect EV take-up to grow rapidly, and EVs to be the dominant transport technology in a few years.” Consing also reiterates that the Ayala Group is committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. “Ayala believes that positive climate action is an investment that will benefit future generations,” he added.
TECHNOLOGY
The EV6 is Kia’s first car to be based on the company’s dedicated new platform for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). As the first dedicated Kia EV, it is a showcase of human-centered, progressive design and electrified power that yields an output of 229PS and 350Nm of torque.
The cabin of the EV6 is versatile and spacious thanks to the flat under-floor battery. The interior design benefits greatly from the application of Kia’s dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Despite the EV6’s compact exterior dimensions, its 2,900mm wheelbase results in cabin space similar to many midsize SUVs. This configuration also guarantees a very smooth ride.
At the center of the design philosophy of the EV6 is a new visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes. The futuristic yet classy look is embodied by the elegant clamshell hood which is a highlight of the impactful exterior. The side profile displays a crossover-inspired silhouette, which is modern, sleek, and aerodynamic. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors, curving upwards towards the rear wheel arches to visually elongate the car’s profile. Designed in part to realize ultimate aerodynamic performance, the rear displays a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert that appears to extend the window glass. Above this sits a prominent wing-type roof spoiler that channels air downwards towards a raised lower spoiler, which sits atop the car’s unique rear light cluster. Advanced aerodynamics plays a huge role in the EV6’s exceptional 528-km range (based on EPA rating).
RANGE AND CHARGING
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 500 kms on a single charge, based on EPA rating standards.
SAFETY
The EV6 is the recipient of the 5-Star Euro NCAP rating. Its safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning Detection, Blind Spot Detection and Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping & Following Assist Technology, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Safe Exit Assist, and 360-View Monitor.
The EV6’s low-mounted Lithium-Ion battery system is enclosed and resistant to large water splashes and carries an IP66 international rating. This rating is one of the most commonly used for electrical enclosures with plastic hinges and waterproof gaskets. It is also equipped with a water-sensing system that will automatically shut off the EV system in the unlikely event of water intrusion beyond safety standards.
For added peace of mind, Kia Philippines already has all the tools and EV6-specific equipment to address any concerns, with locally-available parts and world-class trained technicians ready to support the EV6.
MAINTENANCE COSTS
The EV6 is a game-changer when it comes to maintenance as it is much more cost-efficient than cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE).
Because there is no need for engine oil changes, oil filters, spark plugs, and other lubricants, maintenance costs for EVs are significantly lower than for cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE). Kia estimates that you will spend about P25,000 for 5 years in maintaining an EV6, versus Php110,000 for a similar-sized ICE car over the same period of time.
As an added capability, the EV6 is equipped with the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature which can be used during power outages or camping trips to power up gadgets and devices.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
The EV6 GT-Line, with all its inclusions, is competitively priced at Php3,788,000. The package is inclusive of a portable charger; 5 years or 160,000-km vehicle warranty and 8 years or 160,000-km HV battery system warranty, whichever comes first; 5 years of free Preventive Maintenance Service (PMS); and 5 years of free 24/7 Roadside assistance.
The EV6 will be available in five (5) cutting-edge and stylish colors: Moonscape, Snow White Pearl, Runway Red, Yacht Blue, and Aurora Black Pearl.
The EV6 will eventually be available at all 42 Kia dealers nationwide, but the initial roll-out of dedicated EV dealerships will begin with Kia New Manila in Quezon City, Kia Alabang in Muntinlupa, Kia Sto. Tomas in Batangas, South Luzon, and Kia Pampanga in North Luzon.
For more information about the Kia EV6, visit the Kia Philippines website at Kia.com.