Kia e-Niro has a claimed range of 485 km, which is better than 380 km of US model. But the European model range is calculated using the WLTP cycle
Kia e-Niro EV will make its European debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show and sales will begin later this year. In the US, e-Niro is christened as Niro EV and the name is the only difference between both these models. The Niro EV concept made its global debut at CES in January and the production model was first launched in Korea in April.
The e-Niro is based on the same platform as Ioniq as it comes with two different battery packs, which has become a standard for all Hyundai and Kia EV models. The e-Niro has a claimed range of 485 km, which is better than 380 km of US model. But the European model range is calculated using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
In the US, they use the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle. The WLTP is not a lab-based test and it uses normal conditions, so the results will be much more accurate. During the WLTP urban test cycle, the e-Niro range increased to 615 km and the company might have made some changes to the European model to improve range.
The e-Niro also comes with Coasting Guide Control (CGC) and Predictive Energy Control (PEC) to improve efficiency as they are linked with the navigation system, which will alert the driver to coast. The company has also given a regenerative braking system and it will also play an important role in increasing range.
Kia e-Niro comes with a 64 kWh battery pack and a single electric motor producing 201 hp. The 39 kWh battery pack power a smaller electric motor with 136 PS and the range is 312 km. The e-Niro also comes with a 100 kW fast charger and it will take around 54 minutes to charge the battery up to 80 per cent.
The e-Niro continues the same design theme as the regular model except with closed grille to reduce drag and some changes for the front bumper. The company has also given new alloy wheels and they are also designed to channel air. At the rear, Kia has given a new bumper and interior is carried over with same features.