Kia’s EV6 Claims Super Speed Performance Moving and Stationary
Kia is employing a 800-volt ultra-fast charging system into its new EV6 BEV to echo its on-road performance of a 0-62mph sprint time of just 3.5 seconds.
The EV6 crossover is Kia’s first car to be based on the company’s dedicated new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) platform for BEVs and comes with a choice of multiple long-range, zero-emissions powertrain configurations. The 800V charging capability means EV6 can claim to go from 10% to 80% battery charge in just 18 minutes, while the range-topping GT version complements its sprint time with a top speed of 161mph.
Entry level starts with a choice between a long-range 77.4kWh battery pack and the standard-range 58.0kWh battery option. EV6 GT-line is available with both long-range and standard-range battery packs, while EV6 GT features the long-range battery pack only. This is Kia’s first electric vehicle to be available with two-wheel or all-wheel drive options.
The 2WD 77.4kWh EV6 claims a range of 316 miles on a single charge on the WLTP combined cycle. With a maximum 446ft-lbs of torque available on the AWD version, the EV6 can accelerate from 0-to-62mph in 5.2 seconds. The 77.4kWh battery pack is paired with a 225bhp electric motor powering the rear wheels and for AWD models two electric motors, powering the front and rear axles, produce a total of 320bhp.
The 58.0kWh EV6 claims a sprint time of 6.2 seconds, also with with a maximum 446ft-lbs of torque available on the AWD version. The 58.0kWh battery pack is paired with a 164bhp electric motor powering the rear wheels; AWD models feature two electric motors, powering the front and rear axles and producing a combined 230bhp.
Equipped with 570bhp dual motors, the EV6 GT claims a maximum 545ft-lbs of torque and also features electronic-Limited Slip Differential software to the EV6 GT version only for enhanced track day performance. “EV6 is the embodiment of the new Kia. It is born to inspire every journey, through bold design, progressive engineering, innovative technologies, and exciting electric performance,” Ho Sung Song, Kia’s president and CEO said. “EV6 also represents the beginning of Kia’s long-term commitment to sustainable mobility, accelerating the transition not only to clean transportation, but also products, materials and manufacturing.” The EV6 will be produced in South Korea. It will go on-sale in select global markets starting from the second half of 2021, with online reservations beginning from 30 March in some markets.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
