Kia unveils new all-electric Soul at LA Auto Show

A new Kia Soul electric car and updated version of the Kia Niro EV are impressing crowds at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, unveiled by the South Korean carmaker as they prepare for launch in Europe and North America.

Keeping to its original design, the Kia Soul is a perfect fit for lovers of electric SUVs, with aesthetic features such as a closed grille, a 25″ touchscreen at the centre of the dash, bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Driving assist features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance alerts, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist as standard, with additional features such as blind spot and rear cross-traffic collision warnings and parking distance assists as options.

With two trims available – the EV and the EV “Designer Collection” – buyers will have the choice to upgrade for extra paint options, powered mirrors, a 10-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system, wireless phone charge and premium interior styling.

Powered by a 64 kWh battery, the 150kW motor offers 395Nm torque while four driving modes allow drivers to choose driving experience and battery usage.

While range has not yet been revealed, a regenerative brake system and “brake and hold” paddle shift system allow the driver to get the most out of transferring the car’s kinetic energy back into the battery.

Read the full story on RenewEconomy’s electric vehicle-dedicated site, The Driven…

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Bridie Schmidt is lead reporter for The Driven, sister site of Renew Economy. She specialises in writing about new technology, and has a keen interest in the role that zero emissions transport has to play in sustainability.

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