Kia’s rolling out nationwide test drive events for its new EV2 compact SUV, giving drivers their first chance to experience the automaker’s latest electric offering. The ‘First Drive Weekend’ runs from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, June 27.
The hour-long sessions target potential customers considering Kia’s entry into the competitive B-segment electric SUV market – where it’ll face off against the Renault 4 and Ford Puma Gen-E.
Each test drive includes 30 minutes behind the wheel with a Kia representative. Attendees also get a detailed vehicle walkthrough with a product expert and a Q&A session covering EV ownership basics.
The transition from gas to electric remains a key concern for many buyers.
Battery Options and Charging Capabilities
Test drive participants will experience the EV2’s 42.2kWh battery configuration, which delivers 196 miles of range. Kia’s planning a larger 61kWh option that should provide around 300 miles – what the company calls “best-in-class” range for the segment.
Both battery packs work with Kia’s 400V E-GMP platform, the same electric-only architecture found across the automaker’s EV lineup.
DC fast-charging handles 10-to-80% charging in 30 minutes with either battery option.
The EV2 measures just over four meters – matching the Jeep Avenger’s compact footprint. Kia’s building the SUV at its Žilina factory in Slovakia, with European driving preferences in mind for handling and performance tuning.
Technology and Features
Kia’s loading the EV2 with features typically found in larger, more expensive vehicles. Standard equipment includes a triple-screen infotainment setup, over-the-air software updates, and smartphone-based digital key functionality.
The SUV also comes with Kia’s Plug & Charge system for seamless public charging experiences.
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities let owners use the EV2 as a power source – whether for camping equipment or feeding electricity back to the grid during peak demand periods.
Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but industry observers expect the EV2 to start around £25,000 to stay competitive with established rivals in the segment.
Proven Event Strategy
Kia’s used these First Drive Weekend events successfully before. The automaker’s previously introduced the Niro EV, EV3, EV6, and EV9 through similar programs.
Last year’s ‘Electric Experience’ events for the EV4 and EV5 generated more than 15,000 vehicle reservations.
Those interested in attending can register on a first-come, first-served basis through Kia’s website. The events represent Kia’s continued push to make EV ownership more accessible and less intimidating for traditional gas car drivers.
