Kia launches electric Niro SUV

Models pose with the electric version of Kia Motors’ compact SUV Niro that launched in Korea on Thursday. The electric car can drive 385 kilometers (239 miles) per charge. [KIA MOTORS]

Kia Motors launched a pure electric version of its popular compact Niro SUV in Korea on Thursday.

Niro has plug-in hybrid and hybrid engines and has sold 200,000 units globally as of last month since its launch in 2016.

Equipped with a 64 kilowatt hour (kWh) battery, the electric Niro is able to drive 385 kilometers (239 miles) per charge, making it one of the top players in terms of electric vehicle driving range in Korea.

The Niro EV includes key features of advanced driving systems such as forward collision warnings, lane keeping assistance and smart cruise control functions, among others.

For the EV model, Kia Motors added systems that notify drivers of nearby charging stations and whether the chargers are available.

“The Niro EV, with its long driving distance per charge and spacious interior, is about the only model available in Korea as a pure electric car that can accommodate a five-member family,” an official from Kia Motors said. “Kia Motors will fortify its stance in the eco-friendly car market with the Niro EV,” the official added.

There are two trims available for the Niro EV with a 64kWh battery with prices starting from 32.8 million won ($28,776) with maximum incentives. The consumer has the option to choose a slim package which is topped with a 39.2kWh battery that has the driving range of 246 kilometers. Its price is 3.5 million lower.

BY JIN EUN-SOO [jin.eunsoo@joongang.co.kr]