The Kia EV6 is scheduled to be launched in the first quarter of this year, and the Korean carmaker has revealed more details about its first-ever all-electric vehicle, including cost of ownership and charging time.
To recap, the EV6 is a fully electric car that brings long-range, zero-emissions power, 800V ultra-fast charging, and distinctive styling to the crossover SUV market. It’s also Kia’s first car based on the company’s dedicated new platform for battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Kia Philippines previously confirmed that the EV6 will be priced below P4 million.
Range, charging time, and charging stations
The EV6 GT-Line offers a long-range 77.4 kWh high-voltage battery pack. According to Kia, the EV6 can travel over 500 kilometers on a single charge (based on EPA rating). This means you can go on a road trip to Baguio City from Metro Manila (251 km) minus any range-anxiety concerns.
What’s more, there are 21 Ayala Land fast-charging hubs strategically located in key cities across Luzon, ensuring that you will always have a charging station nearby. These 22kW AC and 60kW DC fast chargers allow EV users to fully charge their vehicles as fast as two hours.
Speaking of charging, depending on the kind of charger used, an EV6 can reach 100% charge (from 10%) in 90 minutes using a 7kW AC charger, or in 50 minutes with an 11kW AC charger. Even faster charging is possible at DC charging stations. Using a 50kW DC fast charger will allow EV6 users to reach 80% (from 10%) in 73 minutes; while using a 350kW 800V DC charger would only take 18 minutes.
Cost of maintenance
When it comes to maintenance costs, it is more affordable to maintain an EV because it doesn’t require any engine oils, transmission fluids, and other lubricants that are required by cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE).
Over the course of five years, for example, an EV6 will only need brake pads, brake fluid, AC filters, and wiper blades. This will amount to P25,000. Meanwhile, a midsize SUV (ICE) will need engine oil, filters, fluids, brake pads, wiper blades, belts, and coolants. Over five years, this will amount to roughly P110,000.
And then there is the equivalent in fuel costs. The EV6’s range is rated at 528km at 77KwH. This range can be achieved with just P800 when charging at home against P2,400 fuel cost of a midsize SUV (ICE) covering a similar distance.
Battery concerns
The Kia EV6’s Battery Management System—which is mounted low to the ground and on the floor— utilizes Lithium-Ion battery cells that are enclosed in a IP66-rated casing system. The EV6 is also equipped with a water-sensing system. In the unlikely event of water intrusion, it automatically shuts off the EV system if water exposure is beyond safety standards.
For peace of mind, Kia Philippines has systems in place to diagnose whether an EV6 has been exposed to flooding. EV6-specific equipment is available to address any of these concerns. The EV6 is also supported with parts availability and world-class trained technicians.
“Our one true message to the public aims to open their eyes to the reality and potential of EVs, and that Kia Philippines is here to make EV ownership convenient, worry-free, and enjoyable,” says Kia Philippines president Manny Aligada.
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