Kia Carens EV

Features: The upcoming Carens EV is expected to carry features similar to the upcoming Carens facelift but gain a few modern-day features. Key highlights may include a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an all-digital instrument cluster (both displays with EV-specific user interface and menus), cruise control, ambient lighting, rear window sunblinds, an electric sunroof, LED headlights, connected car tech, driving modes, front and rear seat ventilation, and faster charging USB ports. Safety equipment of the electric MPV should comprise a 360-degree camera, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, hill hold assist, rear-wheel disc brakes, blind view monitor, electronic stability control (ESC), ABS with EBD, brake assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Motor: Powering the Kia Carens EV is likely to be a choice of two battery packs with varying ranges. They could be coupled to a single motor. That said, the electric vehicle is expected to offer a range of about 450 km. Expect Kia to equip the all-electric Carens to provide fast DC and AC charging capability. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) might also be on the cards.

Rivals: The new Carens EV will not have any direct rivals but it will rival a few electric SUVs from the compact segment, such as the Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV, and Tata Curvv EV. It will also serve as an affordable alternative to the BYD e Max 7.