EV adoption has now shifted from the “Early Adopter” phase to the “Early Majority” phase. This is according to Kia Corporation president and CEO Ho Sung Song as he led the Korean mobility brand at the 2025 Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain.
The era of “Early Adopters,” wowed by the likes of the EV6 and EV9 is now over, Mr. Song said. Instead, it has shifted to the so-called “Early Majority,” which look at the practical and accessible aspect of EVs. This means that to continue the adoption and appeal of electric mobility, the availability of choice becomes paramount.
“Kia remains committed to becoming the world’s leading EV brand and sustainable mobility solutions provider by enhancing the options and experiences we offer our customers,” he said. “We strive to democratize EV ownership, making the benefits of sustainable mobility solutions open to everyone.”
With that in mind, Kia, is flexing the capability of its dedicated E-GMP architecture shifting it from 800-volt, rear-drive first setup to a 400-volt front-drive setup. They have also showcased their first-ever member of the Purpose-Built Vehicle or PBV family.
Kia EV4
Realizing that not everyone would want a sedan or crossover, the Kia EV4 is the solitary non-high-riding member of the Kia EV family. The EV4 comes in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback.
The EV4 comes in two battery sizes, offering range as much as 630 kilometers on a single charge. Across the line-up, a single front-mounted motor offers 204 horsepower (150 kW). 0 to 100 km/h is done in as little as 7.4 seconds.
It pushes the conventions of compact car design with its short front, long tail proportions. The technical front face sports the EV Tiger Face with the vertically-oriented Kia Star Map lighting. The sedan has a unique two-piece spoiler and vertically-oriented taillights, while the hatchback has sloped rear windows and an elongated proportion juxtaposed by the upright C-pillar.
Inside, the EV4 is all about unexpected contrasts in form, color, and material. Part of Kia’s Opposites United philosophy, it has a free-floating user interface with a trio of screens that measures 30 inches combined and an asymmetric one-spoke steering wheel. Features include an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, Digital Key, and remote over-the-air (OTA) updates. The OTA updates unlock features which, among others, include support for apps such as Netflix and YouTube that use the screen’s native 21:9 aspect ratio.
Kia Concept EV2
Meanwhile, the Concept EV2 completes Kia’s core EV line-up and previews a small all-electric SUV arriving in the global market by 2026.
As a concept car, the Concept EV2 packs a multi-configurable interior with front seats that slide completely rearward and rear seat cushions that flip up. Both are meant to create a “picnic in the city” vibe. The rear-hinged doors and nifty features such as a slide out cushion/storage box below the front seat further emphasize Kia’s direction to position the EV2 as a technology and practicality leader in its segment and price point.
The design of the Concept EV2 makes it instantly recognizable within the Kia EV family. The upright stance, clean surfacing, and geometric lines evoke a sense of solidity and modernity. At the front is the newest interpretation of the EV tiger face as well as the Kia Star Map signature lighting. The latter features an open lamp design without a cover glass for a striking visual impact. At the back, the robust fenders happen to visually integrate the LED taillights which were pushed to the edges adding to its dynamic character.
Inside, Kia filled the Concept EV2 with strong, bright hues—something that Head of Kia Global Design, Karim Habib, has vowed to keep as it heads from concept to production. The starkly designed cabin uses technology to help provide visual contrast. One is via the monolithic digital display that integrates both the instrument cluster and infotainment screen, while another is through both direct and indirect LED lighting to help accentuate the contrasting material textures.
Kia PV5
The biggest news at the 2025 Kia EV Day is the first production model riding on the E-GMP.S (E-GMP for Service) platform. Seriously being considered for a Philippine launch, the PV5 utilizes a battery-electric skateboard platform which allows for flexibility in both vehicle body applications and manufacturing. E-GMP.S standardizes an EV’s essential components such as batteries and motors allowing Kia to streamline development and reduce costs. At launch, Kia showed four different body offerings, but will be able to produce as much as 11 side-by-side at its new dedicated “EVO Plant” in South Korea.
The PV5’s initial specs have it powered by either one of two battery sizes, offering as much as 400 kilometers between charges. Its front-mounted electric motor, with 163 horsepower (120 kW) and 250 Nm of torque, delivers drive to the front wheels. Updates to its electronics, power management systems, and more can be delivered remotely via over-the-air updates. It is also the first to deliver a seamless “In-Vehicle and Out-of-Vehicle” experience thanks to Kia’s partnership with Samsung. The PV5 will offer the Korean electronics manufacturers’ IoT platform, SmartThings Pro.
Transcending the styling of traditional MPVs or vans, it fuses the high-tech with ease of repair. For example, the curvaceous rear front bumper is made up of three sections, allowing the corners (the most vulnerable part), to be replaced independently of the front piece. The same goes for the compound headlights which place the DRLs high above the face, while the main beams are located lower.
The PV5 utilizes durable, easy-to-clean, and sustainable materials inside with five vibrant colors schemes to be made available globally. Regardless of colorway, it offers a continuous flat floor allowing seating across three rows in a 2+2+3 configuration. Thoughtful design elements heighten its flexibility. These include a front passenger seat that sinks into the floor and simplified railings for the second- and third-row seats which means they can be removed easily.
The PV5’s “open box” concept means a minimalist control layout arranged horizontally. This allows for the efficient use of space, freeing up storage both at the top and bottom parts of the dashboard. In front of the driver is a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, while at the middle is a 12.9-inch infotainment screen powered by Android Automotive OS. The latter allows the accommodation of features unheard of in the commercial vehicle segment such as Digital Key and access to the app market.
“Kia EV Day shows our vision for a sustainable future where electric mobility is accessible to all,” Mr. Song said. “It marks a significant step forward in our electrification journey. In an era that places ever greater demand for customized products and experiences, buyers still expect manufacturers to meet their needs. Our customer-first approach combined with advanced EV technology will transform personal mobility.”
