6 Amazing Attributes of Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul EV might be ideal for those who want to trade their petrol and diesel-powered vehicles for an electric beast. It comes with a bevy of upgrades and is a practical, energy-efficient car that helps contribute to a greener environment. With Soul EV, the South Korean carmaker has carried on its two-color theme, and the starting price is estimated at $38,000. Check out the salient features of this automobile below.
Infotainment
Soul EV’s center console is fitted with an 8 or 10.25 inches touchscreen. The interiors are an elegant mix of metal effects and a glossy finish. A handful of function control options are stationed around the infotainment center and on the steering wheel.
Fuel economy
Kia’s Soul EV has a standard short-range battery of 39.2 kWh and a long-range 64 kWh battery. The long-range battery is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion polymer contraption that does not necessarily call for daily charging. An electric vehicle’s fuel economy is a little harder to determine. It is because numerous factors play a role in determining its fuel economy. It includes factors like temperature and driving mode. When Kia Soul EV officially launched, the company claimed the car’s smaller battery to be up to 30% compared to the others available in the market.
Performance
Kia Soul EV is available in the form of two powertrain models. The car’s base models are equipped with a 134 bhp electric motor. The other option is the 201 bhp which delivers a speedy and smooth driving experience. It allows the driver to shift seamlessly between gears and cruise down the roads without being bumpy. The stellar performance and equally commendable safety features make the Kia Soul EV an excellent drive for the city and highways.
Charging
Kia Soul EV’s former models were claimed to go from 0-80% in approximately half an hour when connected to a public rapid charger. On the other hand, fast chargers took up to five hours, and domestic plug sockets took up to 13 hours to deliver the same result. Each car came with an adaptor and a red cable for charging at public charging spots. It would connect to the grill through a flap in the front grille. Kia introduced a Combined Charging System DC charger on their more recent models. Both the battery packs in the models are expected to take under 45 minutes to charge 20-80% capacity at a public charger of 100kW capacity. Another advanced feature of the Kia Soul EVs is the ability to check the car status on your smartphone. You can also stop or start the charging process just as quickly with the help of your phone.
Passenger space
Since the driver is the most crucial seat occupant in a car, it makes sense to have an eight-way power seat with electric lumbar support. That does not mean the passenger seats are uncomfortable. These seats are accommodating and spacious enough not to have the occupants cramped up behind. However, the term spacious might not apply to the rear windows. Additionally, settling a bulky car seat in the back might not be all that convenient.
Storage
Although the current Kia Soul EVs are a step up from their predecessors, they still cannot beat Niro. But, if you are an EV enthusiast, the storage space of Soul is impressive. It can easily compete with traditional compact SUVs. The storage space offered with this car is approximately 18.7 cubic feet. With a foldable rear seat in the 60/40 split ratio, the cargo space can extend up to 47 cubic feet. The Interior storage covers spacious door pockets holding large travel cups, water bottles, and much more. Cup holders with the gearbox and glove compartment are other spaces where you can dispose of your personal belongings.