Kia officially enters local EV segment with introduction of all-electric EV6 at PIMS 2022

MANILA: Kia Philippines today unveiled the EV6 all-electric crossover SUV at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The centerpiece of the Kia PIMS display this year is the EV6, which marks the brand's entry into the electric vehicle market and represents its commitment to sustainability.

“Today, we begin our deliberate participation in the Electric Vehicle market as we move into the inflection point. Our event now is not simply another model introduction but also signifies Kia’s commitment to realizing our social responsibility through our 3S activities – sustainable mobility, sustainable energy, sustainable planet. Sustainability is a future not just for Kia as the Ayala group has committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This is a guideline Kia believes in and is a focal point in our business. Sustainability is our move to protect the greatest source of inspiration, nature,” Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada stated.

Aligada further said that Ayala Land has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and sustainable real estate development. Supporting the use of alternative energy sources is aligned with the company's mission and long-term commitment. It also supports the local and international demand for a shift to more electric vehicles. Additionally, more than 20 electric vehicle charging stations will be installed throughout seven cities in Luzon in the upcoming weeks.

Kia EV6 revolutionizes the crossover SUV segment with its long-range, zero-emissions power, 800V ultra-fast charging, and striking looks. The EV6 is the first Kia model built on the brand's newly developed platform for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs).

“The Kia EV6 has won many titles and awards including but not limited to 5-Star NCAP rating and the European Car of the Year. However, what thrills us the most besides these victories, is the absolute hospitality and enthusiastic acceptance of the EV6 from our customers all around the world as it gives us a strong signal that we are heading in the right direction. Kia’s vision to become a global leading eco-friendly mobility solution provider is not just our internal target anymore, but an achievable future that is strongly supported by our customers who feel exactly the same way we do about our future and environment and sustainability,” Kia Asia Pacific Sales Coordinating Director Joey Hong said. “Together with many upcoming electric models which we will introduce to the market, we are ready to begin a whole new journey for a better future.”

Kia EV6 features a new visual identity, which combines bold stylistic elements and sculptural shapes to evoke natural energy. The core of the EV6 design is a new visual identity, which combines bold stylistic elements and sculptural shapes to evoke natural energy. The EV6 is a representation of human-centered, forward-thinking design and electrified power. The design is unusual and noteworthy, and it is set to determine Kia's future. It received numerous accolades, including the 2022 iF Design Award and 2022 Red Dot Award.

The side profile features a crossover-inspired form that is sleek and aerodynamic. To visually extend the car's profile, a character line runs down the bottom of the doors and curves upward into the rear wheel arches. The rear features a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert that seems to stretch the window glass, designed in part to obtain optimal aerodynamic performance. Above this, there is a prominent wing-type roof spoiler that directs air in a downward direction toward the car's signature rear light cluster, which is topped by a raised lower spoiler. This has a significant impact on the Kia EV6's outstanding 500+km range.

The flat under-floor battery gives the Kia EV6's interior more space and versatility. Kia's dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) has a major positive impact on the interior design. Despite having a compact body, the Kia EV6's 2,900mm wheelbase gives it a cabin that is comparable to that of many midsize SUVs.

Kia EV6 is powered by a fully-electric powertrain that includes a high-voltage battery pack and a 168kW electric motor. It produces 350Nm of torque and can accelerate from a standstill to 100kph in 7.3 seconds.

Every purchase of Kia EV6 comes with the Kia In Cable Control Box (ICCB) charger. Customers may also purchase a home wall-mounted charger that will be installed by Greenstrum. The EV6 can also be charged at malls and establishments that offer electric vehicle charging with Type 2/CCS2 protocol.

Sales of Kia EV6 will begin in early 2023. According to Kia, its price will be below P4 million.

Kia’s booth at this year’s PIMS is showcasing “Movement That Inspires.” This new Kia movement was launched in the Philippines in 2021, along with the brand’s new logo and tagline. With the opening of several new dealerships throughout 2022, Kia is getting closer to achieving its goal of having 50 operational dealerships by the end of 2023. Furthermore, Kia saw a 76% increase in sales from 2020 to 2021. With a 30% year-over-year performance for the first half of 2022, Kia has established itself as one of the country's fastest-growing car brands and is on track to maintain this growth until the end of the year.

The full lineup of Kia’s cutting-edge models is currently on display at the 8th PIMS for visitors to see up close. The booth also includes the Kia Vehicle to Load (V2L) Coffee Shop and an Interactive Motion Wall, a digital art installation that presents creative interpretations of the land, ocean, and air activated by motion sensors. There is also an EV6 configurator and V2L display, showing how much power the vehicle can generate and how long it can keep a 55-inch television and an air-conditioner running simultaneously.

Catch all these at Kia’s booth at the 8th PIMS until Sunday, September 18. To get the latest updates on the 8th PIMS, follow ZigWheels Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Photos from Kia Philippines and Dylan Afuang

Also read: Max Adventure completes 5,109-km drive across 16 countries using all-electric Kia EV6