25 May 2010

Kia plans EV Picanto

An electric version is on the cards for the next generation Kia Picanto, due to go on sale next year. The EV variant will be in production in Korea in 2012 and will be available in Europe within three years.

Lithium polymer batteries will be used, which are smaller and more powerful than the current lithium-ion batteries in use by electric and hybrid makers.

The car as planned will be fully rechargeable in five hours, and will offer a range of 100kms.

The standard Picanto itself will be powered by a new 1.0 3-cylinder range which will include a 110hp turbocharged version.