Kia Carens EV spied yet again, these new spy shots reveal the design, features and expected specs ahead of its expected April 2025 launch in India.
The first EV to be based on the popular Carens MPV, Kia is now getting ready to introduce its first mass-market electric vehicle (EV). Now we have a new batch of spy clicks showing the electric Kia Carens connected to the charger. Although it has been spied on in testing in India before, these latest images seem to have been shot in South Korea. These offer substantial insights into the design and features of its forthcoming EV.
The Carens EV will ride on the success of the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) version of the Carens, which has been a favourite choice for Indian families. As Kia shifts its focus towards electric mobility, the Carens EV is set to make a mark in the MPV segment with its combination of practicality, innovation, and sustainability.
The Design
The Carens EV will make its public debut tomorrow, and the spy shots show it heavily borrowing its design language from the outgoing ICE model. The shape is virtually unchanged, so the Carens retains the practicality and space for which it is known.
The external changes constitute a blanked-off grille, headlamps with a revised design and integrated daytime running lamps (DRLs), along with a new aerodynamic wheel design. New low-resistance tyres will also be a key addition to boost efficiencies. The charging plug sits above the front bumper in front of the air grille, so it should be easy to get to.
The rear of the Carens EV will receive an updated tail lamp setup linked by a light bar. This is a modern update that sets it apart from its ICE version. The overall design will keep its MPV characteristics alongside futuristic touches.
Enhanced Features
The Carens EV will include a more basketball features list than its ICE iteration. Kia intends to pack the EV with competitive technology like a 360-degree Camera, Level 2 ADAS Suite, and Connected Screen Cluster. Inside, a new dashboard layout and updated centre console will be $4,900. These improvements will provide users with a refined and tech-forward experience.
Powertrain Specifications
Although official powertrain details about the Carens EV are still to be revealed, it will probably borrow its setup from the Hyundai Creta Electric, Kia’s sibling brand. If so, the Carens EV will be available with two battery pack choices:
- 42 kWh Battery Pack: Anticipated to provide a full charge range of around 390-400 km.
- 51.4 kWh Battery Pack: Estimated range 450-473 km.
The smaller battery pack can be 135 PS, while the larger pack will likely produce 171 bhp. While these numbers make the Creta Electric sporty, the Carens EV is likely to remain more practical than performance-oriented.
Performance Expectations
While the Creta Electric has a blistering 0-100 kph time of 7.9 seconds, the Carens EV will adopt a more laidback performance character. Because this is an MPV aimed at families, expect the design and tuning to emphasise comfort and stability while also improving efficiency, rather than sporty performance.
Charging Time
The charging capability of the Creta Electric will likely be carried forward in the Carens EV as well. The battery can charge between the 10% to 80% mark using a DC fast charger in about 58 minutes. At home with a typical 11 kW AC outlet, the car will fully charge in about 4 hours. This makes the Carens EV a perfect choice for city commutes and long drives, with fast charging minimising downtime.
Safety Features
Safety remains a key focus of the Carens EV. Details about it are still to emerge, but it will be likely identical to the Creta Electric in terms of features. It is likely to include six airbags, all four disc brakes, hill-start assist, hill descent control, and electronic stability control with VSM (Vehicle Stability Management). Additional features such as ISOFIX child seat mounts and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) further enhance passenger safety. Passengers will experience a safe and secure drive with these safety features, reinforcing Kia’s commitment to safety.
Launch Timeline
The Kia India Carens EV has been confirmed for launch in April 2025, alongside the facelifted ICE Carens. This allows for the sale of both models together, where customers can choose either the traditional or the electric version. The dual launch strategy not only targets different customers but also the segments of society as it slowly moves towards electric mobility.
Expected Pricing
The Kia Carens EV is expected to be priced at ₹25 lakh (ex-showroom). This pricing puts it up against the growing EV segment in India. Its roomy design, high-tech features and sensible range will appeal to families and tech-savvy buyers alike.
Market Impact
The Carens EV will be vital for the sustainable and innovative Kia portfolio. Kia is expected to use this to gain a foothold in the emerging EV space in India. The Carens EV will take on other electric MPVs and SUVs, bringing its flavour of practicality, comfort and tech. While only the EV options are detailed here, note Kia’s decision to keep an ICE model in the lineup, which highlights its approach of first filling out a conventional electrical offering with an ICE-based option. With its modern design, features, and practical range, it has rightfully earned its place among the family-friendly cars in lightweight EVs with a given travel range.
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