Previously, when announced their business strategy to build a full line-up of 14 Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) by 2027, we predicted that the entry-level BEV model will most likely be the next-generation . However, more info was released and it turns out it is the Kia Ray EV that will be getting an update instead.
The launch set in September is not a whole new generation but the second facelift for the Kia Ray and the revival of the Ray EV that was previously discontinued in 2018.
The EV was first launched in 2012 and became the first mass-produced electric vehicle in Korea. It comes with only a 100 km range and low charging rates.
However, as EV technology continued to flourish as the years go by, the Ray’s 100 km range left much to be desired and was ultimately discontinued in 2018. The EV is expected to return with nearly double its range with even faster charging times.
The new Ray will be made available in a 5-seater, 2-seater, and 1-seater configuration (commercial use Purpose Built Vehicle). More importantly, these seats will be upgraded to capitalise on interior space expansion and improve convenience.
According to Motorgraph, Kia will be borrowing the idea behind the tiny Casper’s unique use of space. To make the best out of the tiny space, all the seats in the Casper are foldable, slidable, and reclinable.
Hyundai Casper
Kia plans to do the same with the new Ray to further make better use of the space within the equally tiny PBV.
Kia has plans to become the biggest PBV distributor in the world by 2030 and the Kia Ray is one of the models that will help the company realise its dream.
Keyword: It wasn't the Picanto EV hinted, but the Kia Ray EV will be rebooted this September