Kia Motors will debut its first globally-marketed electric vehicle next year, said a press release.
With a driving range of more than 120 miles, the Kia Soul EV operates on a high-capacity lithium-ion polymer battery pack, maximizing efficiency by recycling energy generated while the car is coasting and braking back into the battery.
The vehicle's design is similar to the recently launched second-generation Kia Soul, according to the press release. The Soul EV plugs into any standard outlet and takes about five hours to completely charge.
"The front-wheel drive Soul EV prototype test cars currently under development are built on modified versions of the 2014 Kia Soul and are powered by a 109-hp electric motor, producing a generous 210 lb.-ft. of torque," the press release said. "The motor delivers its power to the front wheels through a single speed constant ratio gear reduction unit."
A quiet engine and special sound-proofing materials in the vehicle make for a smooth ride, said the press release. The Soul EV is also equipped with a Virtual Engine Sound System that sends out an audio alert whenever the car is going below 12 mph or is in reverse.
The vehicle will also feature projection type headlamps, LED positioning lamps, LED rear combination lamps and 16-inch alloy wheels.
"The new Soul EV will be at the forefront of Kia's 'Clean Mobility' program, which aims to provide environmentally-friendly vehicles to our customers around the world, when it goes on sale globally next year," said Kia Motors America's executive director of product planning, Orth Hedrick. "Although it is Kia's first globally sold all-electric vehicle, the Soul EV is our second-generation battery electric vehicle and significantly benefits from the in-depth knowledge gained during development of the Ray EV sold in Korea."
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