The 2022 Kia EV6 is just the first of several electric crossovers that the automaker plans to launch by 2025, according to a recent report from Auto Express.
At least two other models are in the works, according to the report. The next in line will be a large SUV specifically aimed at the United States, said Kia’s European product boss, Sjoerd Knipping, in an interview with Auto Express.
This model will have seating for seven, similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 7 expected to launch in 2024, according to the report. Kia has trademarks for the names EV1 through EV9, and this model could carry the EV7 or EV8 badge, the report suggests.
Kia is also planning a smaller EV4 crossover, using the same E-GMP platform as the EV6 but with a shorter wheelbase, according to the report. Auto Express predicts the EV4 will use the same battery packs as the EV6, meaning 58.0-kwh and 77.4-kwh options, with both single-motor and dual-motor powertrains.
2022 Kia EV6
The larger crossover will debut next year, while the EV4 could appear later in the year or in 2023, according to the report.
These models will fit into Kia’s $2 billion Plan S, in which it aims to achieve 500,000 global electric vehicle sales annually by 2025. It is expected that these models will follow the design direction set by the EV6.
Meanwhile, the EV6 will be available at U.S. dealerships early in 2022. Kia has indicated that it will emphasize performance a bit more than Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, which is closely related. A GT version will have 577 horsepower and be capable of 0-62 mph in 3.5 seconds, Kia has said.
The EV6 will be Kia’s third electric vehicle in the U.S., although the second-generation Soul EV will not be available here.
