Kia recently held its annual EV Day event overseas, and we were one of the select outlets invited to attend in person. During that time, Kia executives outlined the Korean brand’s global EV strategy, which reiterated its unwavering approach to going all-electric, bolstered by several new models that made global debuts, including the Concept EV2, PV5 lineup, and the Kia EV4, which we learned will officially be sold in the US.
Kia continues to establish itself as a bona fide mover in the EV segment as part of a larger electrification strategy from the parent company, Hyundai Motor Group. The Group’s decision to invest in advanced platform technology early on culminated in the E-GMP platform, the 800—or 400-volt nucleus of all its bespoke EV models. This platform has already paid dividends in the market growth of all its marques, particularly Hyundai and Kia.
The Korean marque found early success with its EV6 and EV9 models and has since introduced several additional vehicles set to join the lineup, including the EV3, EV4, and EV5. Additionally, Kia shared plans to enter the commercial EV segment with a new lineup of modular BEVs called “Platform Beyond Vehicles,” or PBVs for short.
During Kia’s second annual EV Day event, these models and some additional surprises were on display in Tarragona, Spain. We were there in person to get an up-close look at the nine different models on display (see the video recap below) and have some exciting news to share about Kia EVs and the US market.
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Kia unveils EV4 and confirms it’s coming to the US
Much of Kia’s EV Day 2025 touched upon new models designed for Korean and European markets, hence why the event was held in Spain, but there were some juicy tidbits for North American customers, including news that the new EV4, which was unveiled in Tarragona, will enter the US market.
The EV4 initially debuted as a concept model at the 2024 LA Auto Show alongside the EV3 concept, which has since been confirmed for the US market. We have been covering all the glimpses of the EV4 since, which has expanded into sedan and hatchback configurations.
During EV Day 2025, Kia officially unveiled both four- and five-door versions of the EV4, described as an “athletic all-rounder launched to redefine the C-segment.” This is another core model in Kia’s global EV strategy and the automaker’s first dedicated sedan hatchback EV.
When it arrives, it will offer the best-in-class cabin and cargo space (490 liters in the sedan and 435 liters in the hatchback) and is currently being optimized to deliver the best-in-class EV range. Kia is also targeting another IIHS Top Safety Pick award for this model, and it will be the first in the EV lineup to feature over-the-air (OTA) updates available through the Kia App. Here are some key specs:
Battery size: Standard (58.3 kWh) and Long Range (81.4 kWh) packs will be available
The Long Range battery is expected to deliver up to 630km (392 miles) of WLTP range, and 430 km (267 miles) of range in the Standard model
The long-range hatchback version can deliver up to 590km (367 miles) of WLTP range
A full underbody cover contributes to aerodynamic performance and a drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd
A front-mounted 150 kW motor can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.4 seconds with the standard pack and 7.7 seconds with the long range battery.
Both battery variants can reach a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph)
It features a 400V E-GMP platform, enabling the long-range pack to charge from 10-80% in 31 minutes (29 minutes for the standard pack)
Comes equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) (3.6 kVa) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) (10 kVa) capabilities with an 11 kW onboard charger
Here’s a closer look at the sedan version:
Source: Kia
The Kia EV4 will also arrive with new tech, including Digital Key 2.0, which allows your smartphone to act as a key and is compatible with Apple Watch. The BEV also features i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking, which we recently tested in the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5.
Another feature is “Rest Mode,” which utilizes front-row relaxation seats and a mood lamp to create a comfortable atmosphere while parked and/or charging. Theater mode optimizes the dashboard’s 30″ display, mood lighting, and optional Harmon/Kardon 8-speaker sound system for video streaming on newly added services like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+.
Per Kia, the EV4 sedan will be built at its new EVO Plant in Korea, and the hatchback version will be built in Slovakia for targeted sales in Europe only. Sedan production will begin in Korea in mid-March, followed by hatchback production in the second half of 2025. Production for North America is planned for later this year, but we do not have a more concrete timeline yet.
Kia President Ho Sung Song told the crowd the automaker is targeting a build of 160,000 units of the EV4, 80,000 of which will be sold in North America. Kia said it targets a starting MSRP of 37,000 euros for the EV4. While we don’t have US pricing yet, Mr. Song told reporters the US dollar and Euro are pretty even right now, so we can expect US pricing to be similarly competitive to Europe, at least for the entry-level model.
Kia debuts the Concept EV2 alongside the EV4
In addition to the EV4, Kia unveiled its new Concept EV2 – its smallest BEV model to date, representing the automaker’s “vision for a B-segment all-electric SUV.—its smallest BEV model to date.” Per Kia President and CEO, Ho Sung Song:
The Kia Concept EV2 represents a bold step forward for the future of urban mobility. With the Concept EV2, we challenged ourselves to create a vehicle that defies expectations, offering innovative technology and practicality beyond its size. This concept previews Kia’s future vision to redefine the segment, bringing a new level of sophistication and usability to urban drivers. It’s a clear signal of our dedication to making electric vehicles truly accessible for everyone.
While the EV2 remains a concept for now, Kia expressed a goal to deliver a production version that closely resembles it. Kia’s executive vice president and head of global design, Karim Habib, told the media that it is much easier to accomplish on a vehicle’s exterior. Still, it will try to bring as many elements of the EV2 interior to the masses as well.
We hope Kia will continue to incorporate sustainable materials in the EV2’s interior as well as its unique seat configuration, which includes a folding second row, a sliding front bench, and rear-hinged back doors, which allow the BEV to open up for an innovative spot to hang out. Here’s a detailed look from Kia:
Source: Kia
Per Kia, the EV2 is targeting a starting MSRP of 30,000 euros but, unfortunately, is not planned for a US launch, just Europe and “other regions” in 2026.
Our best look at the PV5, which may or may not come to the US
In addition to the EV4 and Concept EV2 debuts, Kia also shared complete details of its PV5 EVs, the first model from its new PBV lineup to hit the market. The Korean automaker drove four unique variants onto the stage in Spain, showcasing the PV5’s modularity atop Kia’s new E-GMP.S platform, designed specifically for those vehicles. The “s” stands for “service.”
Kia describes the PV5 as a Car-Derived Van (CDV) offered in three body styles: Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab. The variants on display were Passenger, Cargo, Crew, and WAV, which stands for “Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle.”
While these are commercial BEVs at their core, Kia has taken a welcomed sales approach and will sell them to the public as well. That means the everyday consumer can get their hands on one and design it to their liking using Kia AddGear, enabling customers to choose from a wide range of custom accessories for personal and business use.
On the commercial side, Kia announced several partnerships to empower fleet customers with cutting-edge software with the help of companies like 42dot, Geotab, and Samsung. Furthermore, the PBV’s Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS) will allow commercial customers to integrate their own software into fleets. Here are some key specs:
Choice of a 51.5 kWh or 71.2 kWh NMC battery pack for all versions, plus the option for an additional 43.3 kWh LFP battery in the PV5 Cargo
All versions feature a 150 kW front motor than can produce 250 Nm of torque
The PV5 Passenger with the larger pack delivers a range up to 400km (249 miles)
All versions can charge from 10-80% in 30 minutes
PV5 Passenger: A three-row seat configuration that can be optimized for luggage or camping scenarios and has been developed with ride-hailing use cases in mind (Kia has partnered with Uber)
The PV5 Cargo (High Roof): This variant offers up to 5.1 m³ of capacity, with standard, long, and high-roof options available. There is also an optional L-track mounting system and V2L functionality
The PV5 Chassis Cab: It will be delivered as an unfinished vehicle, with a shared cabin, which utilizes the front section of the PV5 Cargo. It was developed with modularity to support a range of conversion configurations, from Drop Side to Freezer Box models
Other variants in the works include the PV5 Crew, which features various cargo securing options like lashing points and L-tracks, plus the PV5 WAV (both pictured above), which comes equipped with a sliding ramp that supports up to 300 kg (661 lbs) and can be positioned on the road or the sidewalk, as well as hardware to secure the wheelchair during transit.
My first thought after seeing the modularity of the PV5 was “electric camper van,” so when I interviewed Mr. Song, it was the first thing I asked. The Kia President could not confirm a camper version of the PV5 or larger PV7 was coming but did say it was being discussed. You may remember Kia unveiled a similar PV5 concept called the WKNDR at SEMA 2024, so this feels imminent and could sell well. Furthermore, Kia’s press release outlining the 2025 Kia EV Day event specifically mentioned a camper option:
Additionally, Kia has developed the Flexible Body System, an innovative technology that enables the modular assembly of body components, akin to assembling a puzzle. This capability allows Kia to effectively address the diverse needs of its customers by providing standard models including Passenger, Cargo, Chassis-Cab, WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle), and Family. Additionally, it will feature conversion models including the Crew, Drop Side, Box Van, Freezer Box, Prime (advanced model based on Passenger), and Light Camper.
Kia said the PV5 Cargo will have a starting MSRP of 35,000 euros, including VAT, and other models will be “priced competitively.”
Like the EV4, the PBVs will be built at Kia’s new dedicated EVO plant in Korea, which also includes a conversion facility next door for those customized builds. Kia shared that PV5 sales will begin in Korea and Europe in July, followed by launches in additional markets in 2026. Conversion models are also expected to begin production “sequentially” between 2025 and 2026.
But will the PV5 come to the US? This question came up multiple times during executive interviews, but we still don’t have a concrete answer. Mr. Song confirmed that the PV5 would be sold in Canada but cited the United States’ “chicken tax” as a hurdle for market entry in the US.
Given that information, it is hard to believe Kia won’t find a workaround to get its PV5s imported into the US market, but that has been all but confirmed so far. That will undoubtedly be a process to keep an eye on.
Other key highlights from Kia EV Day 2025
Overall, EV Day 2025 showcased Kia’s continued dedication to BEVs and its impressive innovation in the space, including variety, modularity, and advanced technology. I always reiterate that Hyundai Motor Group appears to be doing everything right, and you can look at the growing global market share of both Hyundai and Kia in recent years as clear evidence of modularity.
What I found most impressive was President Song’s unwavering support of Kia’s all-electric future, which entails staying the course set out when the Korean automaker rebranded itself in 2021. Mr. Song said that the automaker has no plans to backtrack to ICE vehicles like some competitors. Tariffs came up a lot in interviews, and Mr. Song took a moment to gather his thoughts before addressing the looming threat to the room.
His sentiment was that the threat of tariffs in the US is scary, but it affects most automakers, not just Hyundai Motor Group. Kia plans to keep the best interests of its customers in mind. The location of EV production and its position in the market are key factors in its business strategy. Still, if tariffs arise, Kias is ready to pivot its strategy to continue providing customers with the best technology at a competitive price (again, there was no mention of steering away from BEVs at all). That’s refreshing to hear.
Chinese BEVs also came up in interviews, and Mr. Song’s response was forthcoming and honest (again quite refreshing from a CEO):
Chinese brands are a big burden to all OEMs. Their prices are significantly lower, and they’re growing in new markets. We are growing too. Maybe someone is losing market share, but we aren’t. We cannot catch up with that price gap, but will continue to improve our technology and customer experience.
Alongside potential plans for the PV5 in the US, Kia executives also told the media that it is exploring the possibility of bringing the EV5 to the US but cannot confirm anything at this time. So, in total, we know the US will see sales of the Kia EV3 and EV4 for sure; the PV5 and EV5 are question marks, and the EV2 is a definitive no.
Overall, Kia’s EV Day 2035 showcased the brand’s continued innovation and expansion into new segments led by some of the best bang for your buck in technology and charging capabilities. Like Hyundai, Kia is becoming an absolute vanguard in BEVs (one of its internal goals), which is why its market share continues to grow (see evidence above). Here’s an up-close look at some of the sights from EV Day 2025, including footage of the EV4 sedan, hatchback, and GT-Line.
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EV charging veteran ChargePoint has unveiled its new charger product architecture, which is described as a “generational leap in AC Level 2 charging.” The new ChargePoint technology designed for consumers in North America and Europe will enable vehicle-to-everything (V2X) capabilities and the ability to charge your EV in as quickly as four hours.
ChargePoint is not only a seasoned contributor to EV infrastructure but has established itself as an innovative leader in the growing segment. In recent years, it has expanded and implemented new technologies to help simplify the overall process for its customers. In 2024, the network reached one million global charging ports and has added exciting features to support those stations.
Last summer, the network introduced a new “Omni Port,” combining multiple charging plugs into one port. It ensures EV drivers of nearly any make and model can charge at any ChargePoint space. The company also began implementing AI to bolster dependability within its charging network by identifying issues more quickly, improving uptime, and thus delivering better charging network reliability.
As we’ve pointed out, ChargePoint continues to utilize its resources to develop and implement innovative solutions to genuine problems many EV drivers face regularly, such as vandalism and theft. We’ve also seen ChargePoint implement new charger technology to make the process more affordable for fleets.
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Today, ChargePoint has introduced a new charger architecture that promises to bring advanced features and higher charging rates to all its customers across residential, commercial, and fleet applications.
Source: ChargePoint
ChargePoint unveils maximum speed V2X charger tech
This morning, ChargePoint unveiled its next generation of EV charger architecture, complete with bidirectional capabilities and speeds up to double those of most current AC Level 2 chargers.
As mentioned above, this new architecture will serve as the backbone of new ChargePoint chargers across all segments, including residential, commercial, and fleet customers. Hossein Kazemi, chief technical officer of hardware at ChargePoint, elaborated:
ChargePoint’s next generation of EV chargers will be revolutionary, not evolutionary. The architecture underpinning them enables highly anticipated technologies which will deliver a significantly better experience for station owners and the EV drivers who charge with them.
The new ChargePoint chargers will feature V2X capabilities, enabling residential and commercial customers to use EVs to power homes and buildings with the opportunity to send excess energy back to the local grid. Dynamic load balancing can automatically boost charging speeds when power is not required at other parts of the connected building structure, enabling efficiency and faster recharge rates.
ChargePoint shared that its new charger architecture can achieve the fastest possible speed for AC current (80 amps/19.2 kW), charging the average EV from 0 to 100% in just four hours. That’s nearly double the current AC Level 2 standard (no pun intended).
Other features include smart home capabilities where residential or commercial owners can implement the charger within a more extensive energy storage system, including solar panels, power banks, and smart energy management systems. The new architecture also enables series-wiring capabilities, meaning fleet depots, multi-unit dwellings, or even residential homes with multiple EVs can maximize charging rates without upgrading their wiring configuration or energy service plan.
These new chargers will also feature ChargePoint’s Omni Port technology, enabling a wider range of compatibility across all EV makes and models. According to ChargePoint, this new architecture complies with MID and Eichrecht regulations in Europe and ENERGY STAR in the US.
The first charger models on the platform are expected to hit Europe this summer followed by North America by the end of 2025.
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Crashing oil prices triggered by waning demand, global trade war fears and growing crude supply could more than double Saudi Arabia’s budget deficit, a Goldman Sachs economist warned.
The bank’s outlook spotlighted the pressure on the kingdom to make changes to its mammoth spending plans and fiscal measures.
“The deficits on the fiscal side that we’re likely to see in the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council] countries, especially big countries like Saudi Arabia, are going to be pretty significant,” Farouk Soussa, Middle East and North Africa economist at Goldman Sachs, told CNBC’s Access Middle East on Wednesday.
Spending by the kingdom has ballooned due to Vision 2030, a sweeping campaign to transform the Saudi economy and diversify its revenue streams away from hydrocarbons. A centerpiece of the project is Neom, an as-yet sparsely populated mega-region in the desert roughly the size of Massachusetts.
Plans for Neom include hyper-futuristic developments that altogether have been estimated to cost as much as $1.5 trillion. The kingdom is also hosting the 2034 World Cup and the 2030 World Expo, both infamously costly endeavors.
Digital render of NEOM’s The Line project in Saudi Arabia
The Line, NEOM
Saudi Arabia needs oil at more than $90 a barrel to balance its budget, the International Monetary Fund estimates. Goldman Sachs this week lowered its year-end 2025 oil price forecast to $62 a barrel for Brent crude, down from a previous forecast of $69 — a figure that the bank’s economists say could more than double Saudi Arabia’s 2024 budget deficit of $30.8 billion.
“In Saudi Arabia, we estimate that we’re probably going to see the deficit go up from around $30 to $35 billion to around $70 to $75 billion, if oil prices stayed around $62 this year,” Soussa said.
“That means more borrowing, probably means more cutbacks on expenditure, it probably means more selling of assets, all of the above, and this is going to have an impact both on domestic financial conditions and potentially even international.”
Financing that level of deficit in international markets “is going to be challenging” given the shakiness of international markets right now, he added, and likely means Riyadh will need to look at other options to bridge their funding gap.
The kingdom still has significant headroom to borrow; their debt-to-GDP ratio as of December 2024 is just under 30%. In comparison, the U.S. and France’s debt-to-GDP ratios of 124% and 110.6%, respectively. But $75 billion in debt issuance would be difficult for the market to absorb, Soussa noted.
“That debt to GDP ratio, while comforting, doesn’t mean that the Saudis can issue as much debt as they like … they do have to look at other remedies,” he said, adding that those remedies include cutting back on capital expenditure, raising taxes, or selling more of their domestic assets — like state-owned companies Saudi Aramco and Sabic. Several Neom projects may end up on the chopping block, regional economists predict.
Saudi Arabia has an A/A-1 credit rating with a positive outlook from S&P Global Ratings and an A+ rating with a stable outlook from Fitch. That combined with high foreign currency reserves — $410.2 billion as of January, according to CEIC data — puts the kingdom in a comfortable place to manage a deficit.
The kingdom has also rolled out a series of reforms to boost and de-risk foreign investment and diversify revenue streams, which S&P Global said in September “will continue to improve Saudi Arabia’s economic resilience and wealth.”
“So the Saudis have lots of options, the mix of all of these is very difficult to pre-judge, but certainly we’re not looking at some sort of crisis,” Soussa said. “It’s just a question of which options they go for in order to deal with the challenges that they’re facing.”
Global benchmark Brent crude was trading at $63.58 per barrel on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in London, down roughly 14% year-to-date.
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