Kia revealed the EV5, a compact electric crossover, at the Chengdu Auto Show in China, according to the Korean automaker’s press service. The vehicle measures 4615 millimeters in length and rides on a wheelbase of 2750 millimeters. It is powered by an electric motor delivering 217 horsepower and 310 Newton-meters of torque, paired with a battery rated at 82 kilowatt-hours. The motor is mounted on the rear axle, and the cabin showcases a bold, uninterrupted dashboard that blends a digital instrument cluster with a large multimedia screen.
Inside, Kia designed the EV5 so the occupants feel as if they are in a home living room. Visuals from the show indicate there is no central armrest in the cabin, contributing to a spacious, open feel. The interior also features an automated ambient lighting system with 64 color options. The lighting adapts to ambient conditions, dimming in low light, and the system can alert the driver about speed when needed.
Kia plans to manufacture the EV5 in China and then export it to other markets, with sales in China slated to begin in the autumn. The EV5 will join the EV series as the second electric model offered in China following the popular EV6.
Earlier at the Chengdu Auto Show, Kia also introduced the Tank 400, another model showcased alongside the EV lineup.