Kia's EV2 is the brand's smallest and most affordable electric car yet, but it has ambitions far beyond being a budget EV. Our motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay caught up with Daniel Sayles, Head of Press and Public Relations at Kia UK, to discuss who it's for, real-world range, AI technology and how Kia views growing competition from Chinese brands.
Tim Barnes-Clay: I've just driven the EV2, and I'm impressed. It's competitively priced and feels ideal as a second car or a first EV for city drivers. Is that how Kia sees it?
Daniel Sayles: Absolutely. It's the entry point to our EV range and our most affordable electric car, but it also offers more range than many rivals. It works as a second car, a first EV or even a first car. Thanks to its space and practicality, it could comfortably be someone's only car.
Tim Barnes-Clay: It has real presence for a compact SUV. I also like the colour options. Do you have a favourite?
Daniel Sayles: The dark grey. It contrasts brilliantly with the black body cladding, and on GT-Line models the body-coloured bumpers give it a more purposeful, sporty look.
Tim Barnes-Clay: Styling matters, doesn't it? People want a car they're proud of.
Daniel Sayles: Definitely. When I first saw the EV2 in a studio in Frankfurt, I thought it looked like a half-size EV9. That's intentional. It shares the same upright, rugged design philosophy, while the EV4 offers something completely different. Our EV line-up gives customers genuine choice.
Tim Barnes-Clay: The GT-Line long-range 61kWh model I drove, fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, has an official WLTP range of 261 miles. But what can owners realistically expect in everyday driving?
Daniel Sayles: Our WLTP figures are independently tested, and we've also entered Norway's demanding EV range tests. In winter, at temperatures down to minus 25°C, the EV2 achieved just 14% less than its official figure. In summer, it actually exceeded WLTP by 12%. That should give buyers confidence.
Tim Barnes-Clay: Who's the target customer?
Daniel Sayles: It's broad, but we've definitely had younger buyers in mind. You see that in the styling, technology, AI integration and accessible pricing. But we expect interest across lots of different lifestyles.
Tim Barnes-Clay: How does the AI work?
Daniel Sayles: It's powered by ChatGPT and designed to be genuinely helpful. Just say, "Hey Kia", and ask a question. If you're heading to Oxford, for example, it can suggest chargers and somewhere to grab lunch along the way.
Tim Barnes-Clay: That should help drivers who are still nervous about charging.
Daniel Sayles: Exactly. It removes some of the uncertainty by finding suitable chargers without you needing to search manually.
Tim Barnes-Clay: Chinese brands are arriving in the UK at pace. Does Kia feel under pressure?
Daniel Sayles: Competition makes us better. Some of those brands are doing well, but we're focused on running our own business sustainably. We've been in the UK for 35 years, have 189 dealerships and a well-established aftersales network. That's a strong foundation.
Tim Barnes-Clay: I remember when Kia was the newcomer. A friend learned to drive in a Kia Pride.
Daniel Sayles: Exactly. We were once the emerging brand, so we understand that journey.
Tim Barnes-Clay: What does driving a Kia say about someone?
Daniel Sayles: We have very loyal customers. Many simply replace one Kia with another. Historically, Kia has been the thinking person's choice - generous equipment, competitive pricing and strong customer service without paying extra for a prestige badge.
Tim Barnes-Clay: Do we just get the five-seat EV2?
Daniel Sayles: That's right. A four-seat version is sold elsewhere in Europe, but UK buyers overwhelmingly prefer five seats. It offers better flexibility and practicality.
Tim Barnes-Clay: And what's the starting price?
Daniel Sayles: Around £24,000, and it qualifies for the £3,750 government electric car grant. For a car capable of up to around 281 miles of range, that's a compelling proposition. Finance costs will vary depending on deposit and offers.
Tim Barnes-Clay: And it's earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating.
Daniel Sayles: Absolutely - another important selling point.
Tim Barnes-Clay: Finally, what's coming next?
Daniel Sayles: It's been a busy year with the EV4 and now EV2. Later this year we'll launch the new Seltos, a smaller hybrid SUV with an electrified all-wheel-drive system. Then in 2027 we'll introduce the PV7, a larger Ford Transit-sized electric van, following the PV5. And we'll reveal a couple of surprises next year.