Kia Seltos EV Could Get e-Niro’s Setup

Kia Motors had showcased its two EVs at the Auto Expo 2020 – e-Niro and e-Soul. While these two vehicles are unlikely to come to India anytime soon, there is some possibility of Kia transplanting the electric powertrain of the e-Niro into the Seltos. It may be noted that the Kia Seltos EV is rumoured to be on its way to become the first electric car in its company's lineup. 

Electrification of vehicles is currently being promoted rather aggressively in India. While there is still time for EVs to become mainstream in India, many companies have taken initiative to introduce such vehicles early into the market. Last year we say the entry of the Hyundai Kona EV, which also features the same powertrain underneath. Kia, being the sister brand of Hyundai, is expected to share Hyundai’s enthusiasm in contributing to the electrification of the vehicle.

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Kia e-Niro is powered by a 356 Volt, 64 kWh battery pack that is connected to an electric motor that generates a max power of 204 PS and peak torque of 395 Nm. The company claims a driving range of 455 km on a single full charge, which is absolutely mind-blowing. Not only that, but the performance is also quite engaging; 0 – 100 kmph takes a mere 7.8 seconds to achieve, and the car can touch a top speed of 167 kmph.

In terms of equipment, the e-Niro is quite heavily packed. Enter the cabin and your eyes will immediately fall on the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the centre of the dashboard. You also get a wireless charger, leather-wrapped seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, electronic parking brake, and steering wheel-mounted controls.

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On the outside, the e-Niro resembles very closely to its donor vehicle, the Kia Niro, but with a few subtle changes. The front-grille is covered as there is no need for air intake, and there is a charging port at one end of it. You also get large 17-inch wheels inside the large, muscular wheel arches of the car. Dimension-wise, the Niro SUV is slightly larger than the Kia Seltos, with a length of 4374 mm, a width of 1806 mm, a height of 1570 mm, and a wheelbase length of 2700 mm. It would be quite easy for Kia to shove the electric motor/battery pack from one to the other.