Kia Confirms New Affordable City EV Under €25,000: Kia is shifting gears towards an electrified future with an ambitious new roadmap that includes a highly affordable electric city car priced below €25,000 (around £21,000). With the EV3, EV6, and EV9 already carving a space in the global EV market, Kia is now targeting budget-conscious buyers who are seeking accessible, sustainable mobility. This move comes in response to growing consumer demand and tightening emissions regulations, especially in Europe, where smaller, efficient vehicles remain in high demand.
Kia’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, has reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to making electric cars more accessible. Speaking about the upcoming wave of EVs, Song highlighted that while the brand will continue investing in premium electric vehicles and software-defined platforms, the focus will also remain on affordable models. In particular, the entry-level EV below the EV2 is gaining attention. Designed to be an electric replacement for the Kia Picanto, this new model will offer zero-emission driving without breaking the bank—an exciting proposition for first-time EV buyers.
In addition to developing this small EV, Kia has confirmed that hybrids and internal combustion engine (ICE) models will remain part of its global lineup. This mixed approach aims to cater to various markets where EV infrastructure may still be developing. The manufacturer is also expanding into vans and pickups, making its future product lineup more diverse than ever. But for now, the spotlight is firmly on the next-generation affordable electric city car expected to debut before the end of the decade.
Overview of Kia’s Upcoming Entry-Level Electric City Car
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Type | Entry-level Electric City Car |
| Price Target | Under €25,000 (~£21,000 / ₹22 lakh approx.) |
| Positioning | Below Kia EV2; Picanto EV Successor |
| Launch Window | Before 2030 (Speculated around 2027–2028) |
| Market Focus | Europe and urban markets globally |
| Powertrain | Fully electric; range-extender versions possible |
| Platform | Likely based on upcoming modular EV architecture |
| Design Philosophy | Compact, practical, affordable, urban-friendly |
| Production Goal | High-volume affordability segment |
| CEO’s Statement | “It’s our homework… and we are developing it” |
Kia’s EV Strategy: Affordable Innovation for the Masses
Commitment to Entry-Level Electric Mobility
Kia has clearly stated that it is committed to keeping electric mobility affordable and accessible. CEO Ho Sung Song emphasized that the brand is not racing to replace the Picanto immediately, as it still performs well in Europe. Instead, Kia is taking a patient and strategic approach to ensure that its upcoming city EV can truly meet the expectations of both cost-conscious buyers and urban dwellers who require practical, eco-friendly transport.
Range Extender and ICE Coexistence
While the spotlight is on electric models, Kia is not abandoning traditional technologies. The brand is developing range-extender EV technology, hybrid models, and even internal combustion vehicles to serve global markets where full electrification may still be challenging. This multi-path strategy gives Kia flexibility to address regional market needs while still pushing toward its EV targets.
A New EV Platform Is Coming
Kia is also preparing a next-generation EV architecture that will support future models, including the replacements for the current EV6 and EV9. These upcoming vehicles will be built as Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs), enabling advanced connectivity, over-the-air updates, and smart mobility features. This modular platform could also underpin the affordable city car, helping it share development costs and reduce price.
Design and Performance Expectations
Although the official design and technical specifications of the entry-level EV are still under wraps, Kia is likely to build on the Picanto’s legacy. That means a compact footprint suitable for tight urban streets, possibly a 3-door or 5-door hatchback body style, and an emphasis on efficiency over power.
We can expect:
- Lightweight construction to boost efficiency and reduce cost
- Battery capacity designed for urban range (~200–300 km)
- Fast charging support to make daily driving convenient
- Interior focused on practicality and digital minimalism
Price and Launch Date
Target Price
Kia is developing the vehicle with a target price under €25,000, aiming to make it one of the most affordable full-electric vehicles available in Europe. For comparison, this is notably cheaper than most EVs currently on sale, including the Renault 5 EV, VW ID.2all, and Citroën ë-C3.
Launch Timeline
While no official date has been set, the new city EV is expected to launch towards the end of this decade, most likely around 2027 or 2028. Until then, the Picanto will remain on sale, especially in markets where small, affordable cars still find strong demand.
Why This Matters: The Future of Small EVs
Kia’s upcoming entry-level EV is more than just a new car—it’s a symbol of accessible electrification. As many automakers exit the small car market due to profitability concerns, Kia is stepping in with a solution that balances cost, emissions, and consumer needs. By investing in this segment, Kia is ensuring that the electric transition includes drivers on a budget, not just premium buyers.
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Kia Confirms New Affordable City EV Under €25,000 Conclusion
Kia is poised to reshape the electric vehicle landscape once again, this time by focusing on affordability. The new city EV will be designed for urban mobility, practical daily use, and budget-conscious consumers. With a price under €25,000 and the backing of Kia’s growing EV portfolio, this model has the potential to disrupt the entry-level EV market.
As we approach the launch window toward the end of the decade, more details about performance, specs, and features will be revealed. But one thing is clear—Kia is committed to making EVs for everyone, and this new city car could be the game-changer many have been waiting for.
Kia Confirms New Affordable City EV Under €25,000 FAQs
1. What is Kia’s new city EV and how is it different from the Picanto?
Kia’s new city EV is an upcoming electric vehicle that will serve as a successor to the popular Picanto. While the Picanto runs on petrol, the new EV will be fully electric and priced under €25,000. It will offer zero-emission driving tailored for urban users, continuing Kia’s mission to make EVs more accessible.
2. When will the affordable Kia electric city car be launched?
Kia has not given an exact launch date, but the new EV is expected to arrive between 2027 and 2028. In the meantime, the Picanto will remain in production to meet market demand.
3. What will be the price of Kia’s upcoming city EV in India and Europe?
In Europe, Kia aims to price the EV below €25,000 (approx. ₹22 lakh in India). If launched in India (which is not confirmed yet), local manufacturing and subsidies could reduce the price even further.
4. Will this new EV support fast charging and long range?
While detailed specs are not released, it’s expected that the car will feature fast charging capabilities and offer a practical range of 200–300 km, which is more than enough for daily city commutes.
