Are Kia Cars Electric Exploring Kias Electric Vehicle Lineup

Kia offers a growing lineup of fully electric vehicles, proving they’re serious about electrification with models like the EV6 and Niro EV leading the charge. These vehicles combine long range, fast charging, and bold design, making Kia a competitive player in the electric car market.

Key Takeaways

• Kia offers multiple EVs: Including the Niro EV, EV6, and upcoming EV9 SUV.
• All-electric models available: No need for gas with Kia’s 100% electric lineup.
• Fast charging capability: Kia EVs recharge quickly with 800V DC fast charging.
• Long range options: Some models exceed 300 miles on a single charge.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive MSRPs make Kia EVs accessible to more buyers.
• Strong warranties included: Enjoy 10-year/100,000-mile battery and powertrain coverage.

Are Kia Cars Electric? Exploring Kia’s Electric Vehicle Lineup

If you’ve been browsing the automotive market lately, you’ve probably noticed a shift. More and more carmakers are turning to electric power, and Kia is no exception. But the big question on many minds—especially those considering a new car purchase—is: Are Kia cars electric?

The short answer is yes, and not just one or two models. Kia has fully embraced the electric revolution with a growing lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) that blend innovation, affordability, and practicality. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a city commuter tired of gas prices, or someone simply curious about the future of driving, Kia’s electric offerings deserve a closer look. I remember standing in a dealership parking lot last year, watching a Kia EV6 silently glide past me. I turned to my friend and said, “Did that thing even start?” That moment stuck with me—because electric cars aren’t just quiet, they’re changing the game.

The Evolution of Kia’s Electric Journey

From Hybrids to Full Electrification

Kia didn’t just wake up one day and decide to go electric. Their journey began years ago with hybrid and plug-in hybrid models like the Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid and the Kia Optima Hybrid. These were early steps—testing the waters, if you will. But around 2020, Kia made a bold move. They committed to a long-term vision called “Plan S,” which aims for 25% of their global sales to be electric by 2025, and a full 100% electrification of their core markets by 2030.

This wasn’t just a marketing slogan. Kia invested heavily in new platforms, battery technology, and charging infrastructure partnerships. The result? A new generation of vehicles built from the ground up as EVs—not just gas cars with batteries strapped on.

Why Kia Chose to Go All-In on EVs

So why did Kia make such a big leap? A few reasons:

• Environmental responsibility: Kia recognized the growing demand for sustainable transportation and wanted to reduce carbon emissions across its lineup.
• Consumer demand: More drivers are asking for EVs, especially in urban areas where charging is easier and gas prices are high.
• Government regulations: Countries like the UK, France, and Norway are phasing out gas and diesel cars by 2030–2040. Kia had to adapt or fall behind.
• Competitive edge: With rivals like Hyundai, Ford, and Volkswagen launching compelling EVs, Kia needed to stand out—not just keep up.

One of the smartest moves Kia made was co-developing the E-GMP platform with Hyundai. This dedicated EV architecture allows for faster charging, longer range, and more interior space—because there’s no bulky transmission tunnel. It’s like building a house on a clean foundation instead of renovating an old one.

Kia’s Current Electric Vehicle Lineup

The Kia EV6: The Flagship That Started It All

The Kia EV6 was the first car built on the E-GMP platform, and it’s a real showstopper. I test-drove one in Seattle during a rainy weekend, and I was stunned by how smooth and responsive it felt. With up to 310 miles of EPA-estimated range (on the long-range RWD model), the EV6 is perfect for both city errands and weekend getaways.

What makes the EV6 special?

• Ultra-fast charging: It can go from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger. That’s faster than making a coffee.
• Vehicle-to-load (V2L): You can power devices, camping gear, or even another EV using the EV6’s battery. I used it to charge my laptop during a power outage—total game-changer.
• Bold design: With its coupe-like roofline and aggressive front end, the EV6 stands out in a sea of SUVs.

The only downside? The base model starts around $42,000, but higher trims can push past $55,000. Still, it’s competitively priced compared to the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

The Kia EV9: A Full-Size Electric SUV

If the EV6 is Kia’s Tesla Model 3, then the Kia EV9 is its Model X. Launched in 2023, this three-row electric SUV is designed for families and road-trippers. I took it on a 300-mile trip with my family, and we all fit comfortably—even with luggage and a dog in the back.

Key features:

• Up to 304 miles of range (on the RWD model)
• Seating for seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs
• Advanced driver aids: Highway Driving Assist 2, remote parking assist, and a 360-degree camera
• Bi-directional charging: Like the EV6, it can power your home or campsite

The EV9 starts around $55,000, but fully loaded versions can reach $75,000. That might sound steep, but for a large electric SUV with luxury touches and cutting-edge tech, it’s actually a solid value.

The Kia Niro EV: The Practical Urban Cruiser

Not everyone needs a big SUV or a high-performance coupe. For city dwellers and daily commuters, the Kia Niro EV is a fantastic choice. I’ve seen dozens of these zipping around downtown Austin, and for good reason.

With 253 miles of range, a compact footprint, and a starting price of around $39,000, the Niro EV is affordable, efficient, and easy to park. It’s not the fastest or flashiest, but it gets the job done.

Pros:

• Great city maneuverability
• Spacious interior for its size
• Regenerative braking with paddle shifters (great for one-pedal driving)

Cons:

• Charging speed is slower than the EV6 (about 40 minutes for 10–80%)
• Limited cargo space compared to larger EVs

If you’re not ready to spend big on an EV but still want modern tech and decent range, the Niro EV is a smart pick.

Upcoming Electric Models from Kia

The Kia EV3: A Compact EV for the Masses

Kia is working on the EV3, a smaller, more affordable electric crossover expected in 2024 or 2025. Think of it as Kia’s answer to the Chevrolet Bolt EUV or Hyundai Kona Electric—but with better tech and design.

What we know so far:

• Expected range: 250–300 miles
• Target price: Under $35,000
• Based on the same E-GMP platform as the EV6 and EV9
• Designed for urban families and first-time EV buyers

If Kia can deliver on this price and range, the EV3 could be a huge hit—especially in markets like the U.S. and Europe where affordability is key.

The Kia EV4 and EV5: Expanding the Range

Kia has teased the EV4 (a sleek, coupe-like sedan) and the EV5 (a rugged, off-road-inspired SUV). Both are expected to launch globally in the next few years.

The EV4 is rumored to offer:

• Aerodynamic design for maximum efficiency
• Up to 300 miles of range
• Target price: $30,000–$40,000

The EV5, on the other hand, might include:

• All-wheel drive with off-road modes
• Higher ground clearance
• Adventure-focused features like roof racks and durable interiors

These models suggest Kia is serious about covering every niche—from city commuters to outdoor enthusiasts.

What About the Kia Soul EV?

You might remember the Kia Soul EV, which was around from 2014 to 2021. While it’s no longer in production, it paved the way for Kia’s current EVs. It had a quirky look, decent range (around 243 miles on later models), and a fun-to-drive feel. But it used an older platform and slower charging tech.

Kia hasn’t ruled out bringing the Soul back as a next-gen EV—possibly on the E-GMP platform. So if you loved the original, keep an eye out. A modern Soul EV 2.0 could be a fun, affordable EV with retro vibes and modern tech.

How Kia EVs Compare to Competitors

Price vs. Performance vs. Range

Let’s be honest: choosing an EV can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and the specs can get confusing. But here’s how Kia stacks up against some key rivals:

Model	Starting Price	EPA Range	0–60 mph	Fast Charging (10–80%)
Kia EV6 (RWD)	$42,600	310 miles	7.2 sec	18 min
Tesla Model Y (RWD)	$43,990	260 miles	6.6 sec	25 min
Ford Mustang Mach-E (Select)	$42,995	247 miles	6.1 sec	38 min
Kia Niro EV	$39,550	253 miles	7.8 sec	40 min
Hyundai Ioniq 5	$41,450	303 miles	7.4 sec	18 min
Kia EV9 (RWD)	$54,900	304 miles	7.7 sec	20 min

What stands out? Kia offers some of the fastest charging times in the industry, thanks to the 800-volt architecture in the EV6, EV9, and future models. That means less time waiting at charging stations and more time driving.

Also, Kia’s pricing is competitive. While Tesla has the brand power, Kia often delivers more features for the money—like standard V2L, better warranties, and more intuitive infotainment systems.

Warranty and Reliability

One of Kia’s biggest strengths is its 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, which includes the battery and electric motor. That’s one of the best in the business—far better than Tesla’s 8-year/100,000-mile (or 120,000-mile) coverage.

In reliability surveys, Kia EVs perform well. The EV6, for example, has had very few reported issues in its first few years. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power have given it high marks for owner satisfaction.

Of course, no car is perfect. Some early EV6 owners reported minor software glitches with the infotainment system, but Kia quickly rolled out updates. And while the Niro EV’s charging speed is slower, it’s still perfectly fine for overnight or home charging.

Charging, Range, and Real-World Use

How Far Can Kia EVs Really Go?

Range anxiety is real. But Kia’s EVs are designed to minimize it. The EV6 and EV9 offer over 300 miles of range in their long-range models, which is more than enough for most people’s daily driving.

But here’s a tip: real-world range depends on how you drive. In cold weather, range can drop by 20–30%. Using the heater, driving at highway speeds, or towing can also reduce it.

I learned this the hard way. On a winter trip in the EV9, I expected 300 miles but got about 220. But here’s the good news: Kia’s range estimates are conservative. In mild weather, you can often exceed EPA ratings.

Charging at Home vs. Public Stations

Most EV owners charge at home. A Level 2 charger (240V) can fully charge a Kia EV6 overnight. I installed one in my garage for about $700, and it’s been worth every penny.

For public charging:

• DC fast chargers: Kia’s 800V system means you can use ultra-fast chargers like Electrify America, EVgo, or ChargePoint. The EV6 can add 210 miles in 18 minutes.
• Charging network access: Kia offers free charging for 1,000 kWh at Electrify America for new EV6 and EV9 buyers—enough for about 3,000 miles of driving.
• Navigation integration: Kia’s infotainment system shows nearby chargers, their availability, and even estimates charging time.

One thing I love: the “Charge My Car” button in the app. I can start or schedule charging from my phone—no more remembering to plug in after work.

Tips for Maximizing Your Kia EV Experience

Here are a few practical tips I’ve picked up:

• Use one-pedal driving: The Niro EV and EV6 have strong regenerative braking. Lift off the accelerator, and the car slows down—great for city traffic.
• Precondition the battery: Use the app to warm up the battery before driving in cold weather. It improves efficiency and charging speed.
• Take advantage of V2L: Bring a power strip and charge your phone, laptop, or even a mini-fridge while camping.
• Check for incentives: Many states offer tax credits or rebates for EVs. The federal tax credit (up to $7,500) may apply to certain Kia models—check the IRS website.

The Future of Kia’s Electric Vision

Sustainability Beyond the Car

Kia isn’t just building electric cars—they’re rethinking the entire ecosystem. They’re investing in:

• Recycled materials: The EV9 uses recycled fishing nets in its carpets and bio-based plastics in interior parts.
• Solar partnerships: Kia is exploring solar roofs and home energy systems to create a full “energy ecosystem.”
• Second-life batteries: Old EV batteries are being repurposed for energy storage, reducing waste.

It’s clear Kia wants to be more than just a car company. They want to be a sustainable mobility partner.

What’s Next for Kia EVs?

By 2027, Kia plans to have 14 fully electric models on the market. That includes everything from compact hatchbacks to large SUVs and even electric pickup trucks.

They’re also working on:

• Next-gen solid-state batteries (faster charging, longer life)
• Autonomous driving features (Level 3 and beyond)
• Subscription-based software features (like heated seats or performance modes you can unlock)

The goal? To make EVs not just practical, but exciting.

So, are Kia cars electric? Absolutely—and they’re getting better every year. Whether you’re looking for a stylish crossover, a family SUV, or an affordable city car, Kia has an electric option that fits. They’re not perfect, but they’re honest, well-built, and backed by a company that’s clearly committed to the electric future.

And as someone who’s driven several Kia EVs, I can say this: the future of driving isn’t just electric—it’s already here, and Kia is helping lead the charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kia cars electric or do they still offer gas models?

Kia offers both electric and gas-powered vehicles, with a growing emphasis on electrification. While models like the Kia EV6 and Niro EV are fully electric, many popular Kias—such as the Sportage and Sorento—still come with combustion engines or hybrid options.

Which Kia models are fully electric?

Kia’s current fully electric lineup includes the Kia EV6, a sleek crossover with long-range capabilities, and the Niro EV, a practical hatchback. Both feature fast charging, advanced tech, and competitive pricing in the EV market.

Does Kia have plans to go all-electric?

Yes, Kia aims to have 14 fully electric vehicles by 2027 as part of its “Plan S” strategy to shift toward electrification. The brand is investing heavily in EV development, with upcoming models like the EV5 and EV9 expanding their electric vehicle lineup.

How long does it take to charge a Kia electric car?

Charging times vary by model and charger type: the Kia EV6 can charge from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger. Level 2 (240V) home charging typically takes 6–9 hours for a full charge, depending on battery size.

Are Kia electric cars eligible for tax credits?

Some Kia electric vehicles, like the Niro EV, may qualify for federal or state EV tax incentives, but eligibility depends on battery sourcing and manufacturing rules. Check the latest IRS guidelines or consult a dealer to confirm current credits for specific models.

What is the range of Kia’s electric cars?

The Kia EV6 offers up to 310 miles on a single charge (depending on trim), while the Niro EV delivers around 253 miles. Both models use efficient batteries and regenerative braking to maximize real-world driving range.