EVs are powered solely by the electric motor and use the electric energy stored in the high-voltage battery for starts and acceleration. The battery can be fully charged in six hours using a household charging system. At high-speed charging stations, it only takes 25 minutes.
As they run only on electric power, EVs do not emit any CO2 and are more economical than gasoline-powered vehicles in terms of fuel costs. However, given that most electric energy is currently generated through fossil fuel-based systems, EVs are responsible for indirect CO2 emissions. Moreover, EV-related infrastructure is still lacking.

Since the Vesta EV was released in 1986 and Sportage EV in 1999, Kia Motors has spent over 20 years researching and developing EVs and EV batteries. Drawing on accumulated knowledge and know-how, Kia Motors is planning to launch a compact electric CUV in Korea in 2011 and then overseas in 2013. This compact electric CUV will be equipped with a high-performance lithium-ion polymer battery and an EV-specific electric powertrain. It will be a multipurpose vehicle well-suited for urban driving as well as transporting cargo.
Kia Motors is working on a sophisticated safety system that will eliminate risk factors posed by high-voltage electric components. We are also working closely with our partner companies and relevant industries for the domestic production of key parts as this will lay the foundation for the advancement of Korean EV technologies. Following the release of the compact electric CUV, we will strive to expand the lineup of models featuring related EV technologies. We will also work to build infrastructure to provide convenient access to charging stations.