Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Kia launches first electric car

Based on the crossover Ray launched there a few weeks ago, the front-drive Kia Ray EV is powered by a 50kW/147Nm electric motor that draws from a 16.4kWh 330-volt lithium-ion polymer battery pack.

Kia says a single charge will take just 25 minutes in fast-charging mode, and six hours from a standard domestic power supply, with a full charge giving the car a range of up to 139km. It has a claimed top speed of 130km/h and a 0-100km/h acceleration of 15.9 seconds.

Extra charging energy is captured by a regenerative braking system – which also uses the electric motor to create hydraulic braking pressure and ‘moderates’ brake force to make sure it is uniform in all situations.

A special satnav system can also guide the driver to the closest of one of Korea’s 500 charging stations – a number expected to increase to more than 3000 within the next year.

To overcome the ‘silent killer’ risk of pedestrians not hearing the quiet electric car, Kia has given the Ray EV a Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS) that broadcasts recorded engine noises at speeds below 20 km/h or when reversing. When the car hits higher speeds, the sound of the tyres is deemed to be enough warning that the vehicle is on the way.

However, like most other electric cars, the Ray EV will not be starting its public life by going on sale to the public – instead it is being rolled out in a lease program for government departments and Korea’s public service.

Karla Pincott is the former Editor of CarsGuide who has decades of experience in the automotive field. She is an all-round automotive expert who specialises in design, and has an...
About Author

Comments