Kia confirms the "affordable revolution": The new EV1, the 20,000 euro rival for the Renault 5, is coming to conquer the cities

In a strategic move aimed at democratizing access to electric mobility, South Korean automaker Kia has officially confirmed the development of a new city car, likely to be called the EV1. The launch marks a crucial moment for the brand, positioning it as a modern and affordable electric alternative to the popular Picanto mini-class model.

A "Software-Defined Vehicle" for Europeans' pockets

The new Kia EV1 won't just be a small electric car, it promises to be the first in its "Software-Defined Vehicle" segment. This means the car's core systems will be integrated into a single unit, allowing for complex over-the-air (OTA) updates and unprecedented digital personalization for a budget car.

The model will use the 400-volt E-GMP architecture, the same one that underpins the EV2 compact crossover (which has already entered production at the Žilina, Slovakia, plant). This technical choice is essential to keep costs low while delivering competitive performance.

Surprising range: Up to 480 km

Despite being a city car, Kia isn't making any major compromises on range. The EV1 is expected to inherit battery configurations from its bigger sibling, the EV2:

• Base battery: 42.2 kWh, ideal for urban commuting.
• Long Range Battery: 61 kWh, which could propel the small hatchback up to a distance of around 480 kilometers on a single charge, surpassing many direct rivals.

With these figures, the Kia EV1 takes direct aim at current and future segment leaders such as the Renault 5 E-Tech, Peugeot e-208, Opel Corsa Electric and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.1.

Price and Availability in Romania: When will we see it on the roads?

The most burning question remains the price. According to industry sources and statements from Kia officials, the target is a starting price in the range of 20,000 - 25,000 euros.

• Estimated price: If the plan materializes, with subsidies from the Rabla Plus program (even in its modified forms), the Kia EV1 could become one of the most attractive offers on the Romanian market, competing directly with the Dacia Spring for the title of "most affordable electric".
• Launch and availability: Although the official presentation of the concept is expected towards the end of this year, the commercial launch in Europe and, implicitly, in Romania, is scheduled for 2027. Production could also take place in Slovakia, which would ensure fast delivery times for Romanian customers.

Kia's future: 14 new models by 2030

The EV1 is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Kia plans to launch no fewer than 14 electric models globally by 2030, including:

    9 SUVs (including a new flagship model scheduled for 2029, the size of a Sportage);
    2 passenger cars;
    3 commercial vehicles.

Furthermore, Kia is preparing a new platform that will replace the current E-GMP. This promises increased efficiency, with a 15% higher battery energy density and a 9% increase in engine power.

By confirming the EV1, Kia is sending a clear signal: the era of expensive and exclusive electric cars is coming to an end, giving way to a new generation of intelligent, urban and, above all, accessible vehicles for the general public.