2015 Kia Soul EV FIRST LOOK

Posted on May 13, 2015 by Car Critic Steve Hammes

2015 Kia Soul EV FIRST LOOK

The Soul is the hottest-selling Kia not named Optima. And now for 2015, you can buy one with electric power, well that is if you live in California, Oregon, New York, New Jersey or Maryland. It’s the Soul EV and it represents Kia’s first all-electric vehicle in the U.S. Utilizing a lithium-ion battery located beneath the floor feeding a 109-horsepower electric motor, the Soul EV has a driving range of 93 miles before needing to be recharged. That is accomplished by plugging into one of the 2 charge ports located in the front grille, offering the flexibility to use a standard household outlet, a conventional EV charger or even a 480-volt fast charger. Though limited in their availability, these powerful chargers can replenish the Soul EV’s battery to 80% full in as little as 33 minutes.

Regenerative braking is used to capture energy otherwise wasted during the process while Super Low Rolling Resistance tires and improved aerodynamics contribute to the Soul EV’s MPG-equivalent rating of 120miles city/92 miles highway. The EPA estimates this will save the owner $4,750 in fuel costs over 5 years when compared to the gasoline-powered Soul.

Inside, the infotainment system features the new UVO EV Services, tailored for EV life providing critical information such as real-time battery-level status, distance to empty and the ability to search for nearby charging stations. The Soul EV comes with unique styling in two trims; base and +, priced from $34,525 before an eligible $7,500 tax credit.

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