Kia drivers, get ready! The Kia Niro EV is finally coming to the United States. Drivers have been patiently awaiting information about the 2019 Kia Niro EV following the release of the EV concept car. This is what we know so far about this impressive car.
Power
The 2019 Kia Niro EV is the first fully-electric Kia car. It is powered with an electric motor and two lithium-polymer batteries that produce 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque power. U.S. drivers can expect the 64-kW battery in their Niro EV, as well as the option to choose between the plug-in hybrid or a traditional hybrid setup.
Do not let the all-electric motor fool you into thinking the Kia Niro EV will be slow. It is capable of reaching 0-62 mph in just 7.8 seconds, an impressive statistic for a fully electric powered engine. The fully electric set up of the Niro EV means it will need to be powered by a charge. However, it features an extended charge time that gives you up to 240 miles in between charges, one of the longest charges currently in the electric car market.
Interior Design
If you have followed the Kia Niro EV concept designs, you might already be familiar with the interior design setup. Kia has carried many of the features of the concept car over to the actual design process. The interior has modern leather-wrapped seats with light blue accents throughout. The intelligent shifter maximizes efficiency and gives the driver added control.
It is no surprise that the Kia Niro EV is equipped with all of the latest technology features. The 7.0-inch driver infotainment system gives drivers easy access and control of their vehicle’s most important controls, including charge status.
Exterior Design
The unique design of the 2019 Kia Niro EV is sure to turn heads. The EV sticks with some traditional Kia designs like the Niro tiger-nosed front end. It has, however, made changes where they are needed. The traditional Kia front grill is replaced with a convenient charging port. This gives the 2019 Niro EV both a unique look and a more aerodynamic drive. The headlights are swapped out for longer LED headlights and taillights. The Niro EV will feature 17-inch alloy wheels that are also designed with optimal aerodynamics in mind.
Safety
Kia remains a leader in terms of available safety features. The current Kia Niro is already a top-rated safety car, rated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Many of the safety features that Kia drivers have come to rely on will also be available in the 2019 Kia Niro EV. The collision warning with lane assist will monitor potential nearby collisions including both cars and pedestrians. It also monitors lanes, keeping the driver from swerving into dangerous conditions.
The modern 2019 Kia Niro EV is one of the most anticipated cars of the year. It is expected to hit dealership floors sometime by the end of the year. Once it arrives, come by Huffines Kia Denton to test-drive this impressive crossover.
Photo via Kia.com