The Kia EV9 is just hitting the streets, but we’re already learning about the automaker’s “next big thing.” Motor 1 located an application on China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) website that covers a new EV called the EV5, a small crossover with the brand’s signature funky styling.
MIIT’s documentation covers the performance-oriented EV5 GT, which would likely be the range-topping model like the EV6 GT we have here in the States. The specs back that up, as it sports two electric motors, with 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque up front and 98 horsepower and 125 pounds of torque in the back.
Dimensionally, the EV5 is around 20 inches shorter than the EV6, but it’s close to the same width and is almost seven inches taller. It also rides on a six-inch shorter wheelbase than the Six, at just over 108 inches.
Kia debuted the standard EV5 late last year during its first EV Day event in South Korea. The automaker hasn’t confirmed the vehicle for America yet but said it was considering the move. It will likely be more affordable than the larger EVs in Kia’s catalog, which comes with a slightly less impressive electrical architecture.
Motor 1 pointed out that the crossover will get a 400-volt architecture instead of the 800-volt system in the EV6 and EV9, giving it slower charging times. It’s also front-wheel drive-based instead of the rear-drive setup found in other models.
[Image: Kittyfly via Shutterstock]
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