Since it was launched in March 2021, the Kia EV6 has impressed the automotive world and received a number of awards, including the 2022 European Car of the Year award. The first of the Korean carmaker’s next-generation battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), the EV6 embodies Kia’s shifting focus towards electrification. As part of the Hyundai Motor Group, Kia is also very much into electrifying its range with the aim of achieving carbon-neutrality.
The EV6 has progressively made its appearance in many markets around the world and now it is also being offered in Malaysia, although only bookings are being taken for now. The model is distributed through Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd (DMSB), which took over representation of Kia from the Naza Group in April 2021. A subsidiary of BAuto (Bermaz Auto), DMSB is the sole distributor while another company – Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd – has also been formed to manage the assembly of Kia vehicles locally and Kia Motors has majority share in this company.
Dedicated BEV platform
Priced from RM300,668 (click here for the pricelist)for the GT-line version, the EV6 is Kia’s first dedicated BEV produced with the all-new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) of the Hyundai Motor Group. By having a dedicated platform, it means that the architecture of the vehicle can be fully optimised for an electric powertrain. Earlier, carmakers developed BEVs using platforms that were still used for conventional combustion engines, resulting in less than optimum engineering when it came to a BEV.
The EV6 has all-wheel drive with two electric motors generating a total of 605 Nm, and a 77.4 kWh battery pack powering them. Claimed performance figures are 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h. The claimed range on a fully charged battery pack is 506 kms but just as with combustion engines, this figure depends on driving conditions and driving style.
In addition, the flexibility of its Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) charging system enables the vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which is capable of discharging energy from the vehicle battery. The V2L function can supply up to 3.6 kWh of power and is capable of operating lifestyle electronic accessories, so the EV6 can serve as a mobile power station.
Digital Tiger Face
The tiger face which was created by Peter Schreyer in 2007 and became a brand signature is still present, but it is now described as a ‘Digital Tiger Face. A sleek, modern appearance of the daytime running lights and a sequential dynamic light pattern evokes the original ‘Tiger Nose Grille’, taking the brand into the era of electrification.
With the E-GMP, the designers have had new freedom to efficiently package the interior with innovative use of space. Though the exterior dimensions are compact, the generous 2900 mm wheelbase allows a cabin space similar to many mid-size SUVs.
High-tech interior
Being a vehicle that points towards the future, the EV6 is equipped with technological that enhance safety, connectivity and infotainment. There’s a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as wireless smartphone charging. The curved infotainment screen has a simple form language which gives the interior an open feel.
The EV6, which has received the maximum score of 5 stars from Euro NCAP, comes with an extensive list of standard safety features and systems. These included advanced systems like High Beam Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist. In addition, there is also a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning. Lane Following Assist and Smart Cruise Control are also included for reducing driver load on long journeys.
Each new EV6 comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty (or first 150,000 kms). In addition, the battery pack warranty coverage is up to 7 years or maximum of 150,000 kms.
Kia Malaysia reveals 5-year plan with 61% of local production to be exported
