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The New Kia e-Niro

1 THE NEW KIA e-NIRO ON (JUST OVER) A PAGE 3

A quick resume of the new e-Niro for those with an urgent deadline

2 INTRODUCTION 5

What’s important about the e-Niro

3 DESIGN & PACKAGING 8

The practicality and appeal of a crossover in an EV package

4 DYNAMICS 11

An all-new platform exclusively for electrified vehicles

5 POWERPLANT 12

An electric drivetrain with a class-leading driving range

6 TECHNOLOGY 15

Up-to-the-minute connectivity, convenience and safety

7 SAFETY 16

Advanced active safety features as standard

8 SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS 17

Everything you need in a single equipment level

9 WARRANTY AND AFTERCARE 19

Kia’s magnificent seven-year warranty

10 FIVE MINUTES WITH PAUL PHILPOTT 20

Burning questions that you would love to ask our President and CEO

11 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 21

We’ve anticipated what you’re likely to ask us

1 THE KIA e-NIRO ON (JUST OVER) A PAGE

General

• 201bhp (150kW) pure electric drivetrain

• 282 miles driving range (combined) or 382 miles in a city environment

• Can be recharged to 80 per cent battery life in just 54 minutes using a 100kW charger, and with a 50kW charger, the battery can be replenished to 80 per cent in 75 minutes

• Slots into a market that is set to grow enormously over the coming years

• Successfully combines two of the fastest growing trends – crossover styling with electrification

• A single high-specification, feature-rich grade ‘4’ model

• A more upscale, high quality interior introduced for 2020, including an all-new 10.25-inch touchscreen with UVO CONNECT

• Underfloor position of the batteries ensures a no-compromise approach to interior space

• More than 10,000 sold in Europe

Body

• Based on a platform exclusively developed for electrified cars

• Five-door, five-seater front-wheel-drive crossover

• At 4,375mm long, slots between the Ceed hatchback and Sportage SUV in size

• Batteries located under the floor for low centre of gravity and satisfying driving experience

• Made up of 53 per cent advanced high-strength steel

• Bonnet, tailgate panel, front bumper back beam and chassis components are all made of aluminium to save weight

• Signature design cues like the aerodynamic 'tiger-nose' grille ensures e-Niro is easily recognisable as a Kia. The grille handily doubles up as a neatly integrated charging point

• Revised styling clearly identifies the e-Niro apart from the Niro Hybrid and PHEV

• e-Niro takes inspiration from the Niro EV Concept car unveiled at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas

• Redesigned air intakes and striking new arrowhead-shaped LED daytime running lights

• New LED headlights with bi-function projection added for 2020

Interior

• Redesigned cabin, incorporating Kia’s first rotary gear selector

• Long, 2,700mm wheelbase and width of 1,805mm create ample space for five adults

• Shapely front seats save 1.3kg each and offer excellent all-round support

• Dashboard split into upper display area and lower control area with fewer, simpler switches

• Horizontal trim line on dashboard emphasises width and space inside

• Luxurious soft-touch materials and trim details attest to high-quality fit and finish

• Boot capacity enhanced from 324 to 451 litres compared with Niro PHEV due to under floor mounted battery pack

Technology and safety

• Wireless phone charger included as standard for Qi-equipped smartphones

• New, larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with Kia Connected Services featuring TomTom® Live, providing speed camera, weather, traffic and local point of interest information

• UVO CONNECT puts a raft of information at the owners’ fingertips

• Reversing camera system and rear parking sensors included as standard

• Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM standard equipment, giving access to navigation, music, hands-free calls and text messaging and voice recognition through smartphone apps

• Advanced active safety technologies include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA), Adaptive Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

• DAB radio standard, with eight-speaker 320-watt JBL® premium sound system

2 INTRODUCTION

• Class-leading driving range of 282 miles

• Can be recharged to 80 per cent battery life in as little as 54 minutes

• Clean zero tailpipe emissions motoring

• Successfully combines two of the fastest growing trends – crossover styling with electrification

• Unique styling cues help to differentiate the e-Niro from the Niro Hybrid and PHEV

• A single high-specification, feature-rich grade ‘4’ model

The e-Niro is Kia's second globally sold electric vehicle after the Soul EV. The new model made its European debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Since 2018, more than 10,000 e-Niros have been sold in Europe.

Futuristic design inspired by 2018 Niro EV Concept

Created at Kia's design centres in California, USA and Namyang, Korea, the e-Niro incorporates the practicality and appeal of a crossover in a sleek, aerodynamic body with subtly sculptured surfaces. The car demonstrates that, in seeking greater on-road efficiency, electric vehicle buyers need not sacrifice emotionally engaging design or crossover versatility.

The Kia e-Niro differentiates itself from the existing Niro Hybrid and Niro Plug-in Hybrid with a series of exclusive design features. Taking inspiration from the Niro EV Concept unveiled at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the exterior is based on a 'Clean and High-tech' design concept. Its futuristic and aerodynamic 'tiger-nose' grille features an integrated charging port, bearing a de-bossed Niro logo. Redesigned air intakes and new arrowhead-shaped LED daytime running lights combine with blue trim highlights to help it stand out further.

The closed 'tiger-nose' grille design is housed within a newly designed front bumper, giving the car a clear family identity, while aiding aerodynamic performance, and providing a sleek and purposeful character to the front of the vehicle.

In profile, the slim character line, tapered rear windows and sturdy sill line help to emphasise and elongate the car's sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the muscular wheel arches. The e-Niro rides on new 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels with a diamond-cut two-tone finish.

At the back, a redesigned rear bumper features similar blue trim highlights to those found at the front of the car. A bold LED rear light design gives the e-Niro the same distinct and recognisable rear light signature as its Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid siblings.

The Kia e-Niro is available in a selection of five contemporary paint colours.

Modern interior with dedicated electric powertrain technologies and crossover utility

Inside the Kia e-Niro, the cabin combines a modern design with generous space and technologies that complement its zero-tailpipe emissions powertrain. The interior is differentiated from other Niro models with a range of new features and design elements.

The design of the centre console represents the biggest change for the e-Niro, with the all-electric powertrain not requiring a traditional gear lever and gear linkage. The physical transmission has therefore been replaced with a new 'shift-by-wire' rotator dial drive selector. The drive selector dial sits on its own highly ergonomic panel which extends out from the base of the central armrest. In addition to the rotator dial, this new panel also houses buttons for the electronic parking brake, heated seats, heated steering wheel, drive mode select, parking sensors, and the e-Niro's braking 'Auto Hold' function. The new panel requires no bulky transmission tunnel, enabling Kia's designers to create a larger storage area at the base of the centre console.

The dashboard features bright blue trim around the air vents, echoing the trim highlights found on the outside of the car. New high-gloss black and blue trim also lines the doors of the e-Niro, further enhancing the futuristic atmosphere of the cabin. The shelf at the base of the instrument panel features a wireless charger for Qi-equipped smartphones.

The new 10.25-inch touchscreen HMI (human-machine interface) in the centre of the dashboard offers a series of features specific to Kia's new electric vehicle. It enables owners to locate nearby charging points and monitor the level of remaining charge and range. It also lets owners gauge their trip and lifetime CO2 reduction from driving the e-Niro, compared to a petrol car of a similar size. The HMI lets owners set an approximate departure time for their next journey, enabling the car to heat itself to a set temperature before the driver departs. The charge management function also intelligently manages the flow of electricity to the battery when charging, to help extend the life of the battery.

The 7.0-inch TFT colour instrument cluster shows driving and battery charge information on-the-move. The display also gauges the driving style of whoever is sitting at the wheel, attributing a percentage to the amount of 'economical' driving they manage on each journey. For drivers preferring to enjoy the car's low centre of gravity and instant off-the-line acceleration, the display also shows what percentage of a journey has been completed with 'dynamic' driving.

A lamp is integrated into the top of the dashboard, with a light displaying whether the battery pack is recharging or fully charged when plugged in. This enables owners to quickly see the car's charging status at a glance when charging.

When the Niro was first launched in 2016, its new platform was engineered to accommodate a variety of advanced powertrains. The introduction of a battery-electric powertrain has had minimal impact on packaging and versatility, meaning the Kia e-Niro offers greater practicality and versatility by design than many other electric and hybrid cars. Its 2,700mm wheelbase ensures all occupants enjoy generous legroom, while space and a sense of roominess is boosted by its crossover design. Its body is 1,805mm wide and 1,570mm tall, ensuring maximum head- and shoulder-room throughout the cabin. At 4,375mm in length, it offers more cargo space – 451 litres (VDA) – than many other plug-in and electric vehicles. The boot features a dedicated storage area beneath its floor, providing space for owners to store the charging cable.

282-mile driving range from next-generation all-electric powertrain

The Kia e-Niro has been designed to merge crossover-inspired design with long-distance, zero tailpipe emissions driving and enjoyable performance. It achieves this with a next-generation electric powertrain, using new production technologies developed specifically for Kia electric vehicles.

The e-Niro offers buyers a convincing alternative to compact crossovers powered by traditional petrol or diesel internal combustion engines. It gives owners the opportunity to complete both long-distance drives and daily commutes with zero emissions and ultra-low running costs.

The e-Niro is equipped with a high-capacity 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. On the WLTP combined cycle, it provides a driving range of more than 282 miles on a single charge, producing zero on-road CO2 emissions. On the WLTP city cycle, the Kia e-Niro is capable of driving up to 382 miles. The long-distance 64 kWh battery pack is paired with a 201bhp (150kW) motor, producing 395Nm of torque, enabling the Kia e-Niro to accelerate from 0-to-60mph in just 7.5 seconds. Like the Niro Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants, the new electric model is front-wheel drive.

Enhancements to the award-winning formula for 2020

Ever since the Kia e-Niro made its debut in 2018, it has been queuing up to accept awards from well-respected, influential industry commentators. But even with an ever-growing list of accolades, there’s no room for the e-Niro to rest on its laurels, and for 2020, it has been made even better than before. A more upscale, high-quality interior is joined by a new high specification ‘4’ grade that replaces the previous ‘First Edition’ in the line-up. Its standard equipment list is lengthy, and highlights include a new updated 10.25-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system with telematics and UVO Connect Services, LED headlights with bi-function projection, ambient lighting and a battery heating system.

3 DESIGN AND PACKAGING

Bespoke electric vehicles, as opposed to those developed from a purely combustion-engined car, have traditionally involved compromises in design, mainly to achieve the lowest air-drag co-efficient figure possible. That is why the majority have adopted a tear-drop hatchback profile – practical and efficient, but uninspiring and not what customers demand in a market increasingly attuned to SUVs and crossovers.

Kia was adamant it could overcome the design limitations of other electric vehicles without sacrificing practicality, versatility and aerodynamic efficiency. The result is the e-Niro, part of a range of Niro hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicles, with a modern, attractive crossover body style and ample room for five people plus their luggage. The remarkable feat is that this has been achieved in the e-Niro with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29, despite the standard roof rails.

To make this possible, Kia designers took a reverse approach during the creation of Niro: design an attractive, sporty, stylish and tough-looking crossover, then fine-tune the aerodynamics to suit the requirements of an electric vehicle. This novel way of going about things has resulted in a crossover which is appealing in its own right, but which is also a highly efficient electric vehicle.

Exterior styling

The design of e-Niro was a joint effort between Kia's studios at Namyang in Korea and Irvine, California. The car features the subtly sculpted surfaces and sharp lines that are now Kia design hallmarks. A wide stance gives pointers to the car's stability and low centre of gravity, while a long bonnet, short overhangs, elevated headlights and a rising shoulder line are other Kia distinguishing features. The body tapers towards the rear, where bold wheel arches, a re-profiled bumper and the high-mounted C-shaped taillight clusters emphasise the crossover stance. The car demonstrates that, in seeking greater on-road efficiency, electric vehicle buyers need not sacrifice emotionally engaging design or crossover versatility.

The e-Niro differentiates itself from the existing Niro Hybrid and Niro PHEV with a series of exclusive design features. Taking inspiration from the Niro EV Concept unveiled at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the exterior is based on a ‘Clean and High-tech’ design concept. Its futuristic and aerodynamic ‘tiger-nose’ grille features an integrated charging port, bearing a ‘de-bossed’ Niro logo. Redesigned air intakes and new arrowhead-shaped LED daytime running lights combine with light-blue trim highlights to help it stand out further.

From any angle, the car exudes dynamism and strength. The body line linking the roof, glasshouse and bonnet adds crossover-style volume to the car, while a wide bumper with bold lines and the now-familiar aerodynamic 'tiger-nose' grille add a distinctive Kia family look. In profile, the slim character line and tapered rear windows emphasise the car’s sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the muscular wheel arches. The e-Niro rides on new five-spoke 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels with a diamond-cut two-tone finish. At the back, reshaped rear bumpers feature similar light blue highlights to those found at the front of the car, while new LED rear lights give the e-Niro its own light signature.

There are air curtains, like gills, in the front corners of the car. These channel air away from the front wheel arches to reduce turbulence in those areas, again to aid aerodynamic efficiency. The roof leads into a rear spoiler to direct air over the car in the most efficient manner.

The tailgate area is clean-looking and sits over a diffuser which aids airflow under the car. The C-shaped LED rear lamps are mounted immediately beneath the tailgate glass, while the contours of the wide and deep tailgate emphasise the smooth aerodynamic shape. Even the location of the standard rear-vision camera reduces drag: it is housed within the rear wiper mounting so as not to impede air exiting the rear. The rear corners of the car have been refined in minute detail to reduce drag without worsening visibility. There are specially profiled door mirror casings and – as an example of the attention to detail of Kia's engineers – covered holes in the roof rails, which sit flush on the bodywork.

The e-Niro has a specification that is based on the grade ‘4’ version of the Niro parallel hybrid, and features the same LED headlights with bi-function projection, chrome-coated exterior door handles, chrome belt-line mouldings, privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate, LED daytime running lights and rear combination lamps and body-coloured and high-gloss door mirrors with LED indicators.

Modern interior with EV-specific technologies and crossover utility

The ergonomic fascia and information clusters follow what is becoming a modern theme for Kia, starting with a wide dashboard set out on horizontal lines. There is an upper display sector with the instrument panel and infotainment screen at the same height for instant, easier reading, separated by a cabin-wide trim line from the lower control area, where the heating and ventilation and driver assistance switches are located.

The design of the centre console represents the biggest change for the e-Niro, with the all-electric powertrain not requiring a traditional gear lever and gear linkage. The physical transmission has therefore been replaced with a new 'shift-by-wire' rotator dial drive selector. The drive selector dial sits on its own highly ergonomic panel which extends out from the base of the central armrest. In addition to the rotator dial, this new panel also houses buttons for the electronic parking brake, heated seats, heated steering wheel, drive mode selector, parking sensors, and the e-Niro's braking 'Auto Hold' function. The new panel requires no bulky transmission tunnel, enabling Kia's designers to create a larger storage area at the base of the centre console.

The five-seat e-Niro has an electric parking brake to release more space for oddments in the centre console and is fitted with a tyre mobility kit rather than a spare wheel to reduce weight, and ensure the boot is as large as possible. Space-saving front seats with special foam-backed covers and slim headrests contribute to the car's exceptional roominess and also save 1.3kg each thanks to their high-strength steel frames, yet they are still able to cushion occupants against bumps and vibrations as a result of high-density foam and profiled springs and pads.

The cabin combines modern design with generous space and technologies that complement the zero-tailpipe emissions powertrain. The interior of the e-Niro is differentiated from other Niro models with a range of new features and design elements. The dashboard features a new light blue trim, echoing that of the exterior, while the design of the centre console has been simplified to accommodate the car’s shift-by-wire drive selector – Kia’s first ‘dial’-style shift knob.

The new 10.25-inch touchscreen HMI (human-machine interface) in the centre of the dashboard offers a series of features specific to Kia's new electric vehicle. It enables owners to locate nearby charging points and monitor the level of remaining charge and range. It also lets owners gauge their trip and lifetime CO2 reduction from driving the e-Niro, compared to a petrol car of a similar size. The HMI lets owners set an approximate departure time for their next journey, enabling the car to heat itself to a set temperature before the driver departs. The charge management function also intelligently manages the flow of electricity to the battery when charging, to help extend the life of the battery.

The 7.0-inch TFT colour instrument cluster shows driving and battery charge information on-the-move. The display also gauges the driving style of whoever is sitting at the wheel, attributing a percentage to the amount of 'economical' driving they manage on each journey. For drivers preferring to enjoy the car's low centre of gravity and instant off-the-line acceleration, the display also shows what percentage of a journey has been completed with 'dynamic' driving.

The redesigned centre console creates more storage space at the base of the dashboard for smaller items – including a wireless smartphone charger. There is smart black leather, high-gloss black inserts on the steering wheel, dashboard and door panels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear selector, a new 10.25-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system and satin chrome interior door handles further attest to the car's quality.

A lamp is integrated into the top of the dashboard, with a light displaying whether the battery pack is recharging or fully charged when plugged in. This enables owners to quickly see the car’s charge status at a glance from outside the car.

Aerodynamic considerations posed many challenges for the teams tasked with e-Niro's packaging. It was determined early on that e-Niro would be a compact hybrid crossover – shorter than the Sportage SUV, but longer than the Ceed hatchback. There had to be a limit on height to reduce drag, but this was not to be at the expense of a raised seating position. And space, versatility, ease of entrance and visibility were not to suffer in any way. The result is one of Kia's most efficiently packaged cars ever.

Thanks to the long, 2,700mm wheelbase there is generous space for five people. There is up to 1,059mm of legroom in the front and 950mm in the rear; the class-leading headroom of up to 1,018mm in front and 993mm behind is greater than in many C-segment SUVs; and the 1,805mm wide body provides 1,423mm of shoulder room for the two front occupants and only slightly less, at 1,402mm, in the rear.

One major difference with the e-Niro is that luggage capacity has been enhanced compared to its hybrid and PHEV counterparts, with 451 litres of space with all five seats occupied. This compares to 382 litres on the Hybrid and 324 litres for the PHEV. The boot expands to 1,405 litres – up from the 1,380 litres of the Niro parallel hybrid and 1,322 of the PHEV – with the 60/40 split rear seats folded.

When the Niro was first launched in 2016, its new platform was engineered to accommodate a variety of advanced powertrains. The introduction of a battery-electric powertrain has had minimal impact on packaging and versatility, meaning the Kia e-Niro offers greater practicality and versatility by design than many other electric and hybrid cars. Its 2,700mm wheelbase ensures all occupants enjoy generous legroom, while space and a sense of roominess is boosted by its crossover design. Its body is 1,805mm wide and 1,570mm tall, ensuring maximum head- and shoulder-room throughout the cabin. At 4,375 mm in length, it offers more cargo space than many other plug-in and electric vehicles. The boot features a dedicated storage area beneath its floor, providing space for owners to store the charging cable.

4 DYNAMICS

An all-new platform exclusively for electrified vehicles

There will be no combustion engine-only Niro. Its all-new platform has been engineered exclusively for electrified vehicles and has been designed to accommodate present and future electrical components within a compact vehicle footprint with minimal intrusion into the spacious interior and luggage area.

The structure is particularly strong and includes 53 per cent advanced high-strength steel, which ensures that rigidity and safety do not compromise weight. This is aided by extensive use of aluminium for the bonnet, tailgate panel, front bumper back beam and several chassis elements, including the front knuckles, front lower arms and brake calipers. The aluminium bonnet and tailgate alone save 11kg when compared with comparable steel components. The front seats save 1.3kg each thanks to their high-strength steel frames, yet they are still able to cushion occupants against bumps and vibrations as a result of their high-density foam, while specially profiled springs and pads provide high levels of thigh, hip and side support.

As a result of all of this, the e-Niro’s kerbside weight is 1,812kg. To ensure body integrity and rigidity in critical areas, hot-stamped steel is used to reinforce the A- and B-pillars, roof rails and wheel arches.

The battery pack is housed underneath the floor, which allows for a larger boot compared to the parallel hybrid and PHEV versions of the Niro.

No compromises in safety, comfort and refinement

By re-engineering some existing components, Kia has endowed the e-Niro, Niro Hybrid and Niro PHEV with a unique chassis specifically designed for electrified vehicles, while ensuring they are the equal of the brand's other compact models for ride comfort, handling and refinement.

The driving characteristics begin with fully independent suspension all round, based on MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement with dual lower arms at the rear. It has been tuned to deliver maximum on-centre steering feel, high-speed stability and immediate response to steering inputs. Because each rear wheel is able to absorb bumps independently, shocks are less likely to be transmitted to the cabin than with a cheaper torsion beam rear axle, while the wide stance and low centre of gravity enhance stability.

Capitalising on the experience gained through the development of two generations of Optima Hybrid (neither sold in the UK), the Soul EV and the Niro and Optima PHEVs, Kia has been able to give the e-Niro consistent and linear deceleration and brake feel unusual in an electrified car. All-disc brakes are used, ventilated at the front, and there is a dashboard-mounted electric parking brake. The anti-lock braking system includes Brake Assist, which ensures maximum retardation in an emergency stop, regardless of the force applied to the pedal by the driver.

Steering is via Kia's proven column-mounted motor-driven power-assisted system (C-MDPS), which gives the car a compact turning circle of 10.6 metres and requires less than 2.7 turns of the wheel between the extremes of lock. The steering gear has been mounted well forward and features an increased gear ratio and a larger electric motor for greater self-centring and responsiveness. Agility is also helped by aluminium front suspension knuckles, lower arms and brake calipers, all of which save weight and counter inertia.

Electronic Stability Control and Vehicle Stability Management, which collectively control skids when cornering or accelerating on surfaces with uneven levels of grip, are standard, while Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) prevents the car from rolling backwards when setting off on gradients.

Passive safety provisions start with the rigidity of the body structure, which is reinforced in critical areas and features crumple zones front and rear and anti-intrusion beams at the sides. There are seven airbags, including one to protect the driver's knees; all-round height-adjustable headrests; height-adjustable front seat belts with an automatic tightening device in the event of emergency braking; ISOFIX child seat top tethers and anchors; and doors which unlock automatically after an impact.

Road noise is minimised by high-insulation rigid bushes in the front subframe, high-strength steel in the rear wheel arches and additional insulation in the A- and B-pillars. The low drag co-efficient (Cd) of 0.29 contributes towards the suppression of wind noise, aided by windscreen glass, a cowl over the front windscreen wipers, specially profiled door mirror casings and – as an example of the attention to detail of Kia's engineers – covers over the holes in the roof rails, which sit flush with the bodywork.

5 POWERPLANT

The Kia e-Niro has been designed to merge crossover-inspired design with long-distance zero tailpipe emissions driving and enjoyable performance. It achieves this with a next-generation electric powertrain, using new production technologies developed specifically for Kia electric vehicles.

The e-Niro offers buyers a convincing alternative to compact crossovers powered by traditional petrol or diesel internal combustion engines. It gives owners the opportunity to complete both long-distance drives and daily commutes with zero emissions and ultra-low running costs.

The e-Niro is equipped with a high-capacity 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. On the WLTP combined cycle, it provides a driving range of more than 282 miles on a single charge, producing zero on-road CO2 emissions. On the WLTP city cycle, the Kia e-Niro is capable of driving up to 382 miles. The long-distance 64 kWh battery pack is paired with a 201bhp (150kW) motor, producing 395Nm of torque, enabling the Kia e-Niro to accelerate from 0-to-60mph in just 7.5 seconds. Like the Niro Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants, the new electric model is front-wheel drive.

The lithium-ion polymer battery system is mounted under the floor, between the two axles, and is liquid-cooled. It operates at 356 volts, has a capacity of 180 Ah and has a total battery system weight of 457kgs.

Energy-harvesting and predictive driving assistant technologies

The e-Niro provides owners with a range of technologies to enhance battery efficiency and improve the car's range.

Regenerative braking technology allows the Niro to harvest kinetic energy and recharge the battery pack while coasting or braking, while the Eco Driving Assistant System (Eco DAS) provides drivers with intelligent guidance on how to drive more efficiently. Eco DAS includes Coasting Guide Control (CGC) and Predictive Energy Control (PEC), enabling drivers to maximise vehicle range by suggesting when to coast or brake.

CGC takes information from the satellite navigation system so that the car can anticipate road conditions to reduce energy use and identify opportunities to harvest additional electrical power through coasting. CGC alerts drivers to the best time to lift off the accelerator and coast towards a junction, allowing energy to be regenerated. It also means the driver can brake later and maintain momentum when traffic conditions allow, reducing the likelihood of the need to stop at a junction or traffic lights. Operating at certain speeds when a navigation destination is set, the system alerts drivers when to coast via a small icon in the instrument cluster, as well as an unobtrusive audible warning.

The electric motor requires a 1-speed transmission, the car features a pair of paddles behind the steering wheel. These paddles let drivers choose between three levels of energy recuperation. The higher the level of recuperation chosen by the driver, the more energy the regenerative brakes try to harvest.

The e-Niro's Electric Parking Brake (EPB, is operated by a button on the new centre console panel. The driver can manually apply the parking brake once stopped. When moving off, the EPB switches off automatically, allowing a seamless start.

A battery heating system is also fitted to the e-Niro, designed to insulate and warm up the battery while the vehicle is plugged in, minimising the adverse effects of cold temperatures.

The e-Niro is also equipped with a Drive Mode Select system, enabling owners to tailor their driving experience. Switching between Normal, Eco and Sport modes, Drive Mode Select alters the level of effort required to steer the car, and subtly changes the character of the powertrain. Eco mode maximises the potential for greater efficiency by limiting the maximum torque and power of the motor, softening throttle responses, and offering more relaxed steering inputs. Normal mode is the most suitable for day-to-day driving, combining the innate efficiency and performance of the powertrain with direct steering and throttle responses. Sport mode enhances throttle responses and enables maximum acceleration, as well as weighting up the steering for more decisive responses to driver inputs, bringing the Kia e-Niro's engaging handling character to the fore.

Low centre of gravity with fully independent suspension for stable ride and handling

The Kia Niro was engineered from the start to accommodate a specific range of hybrid and fully electric powertrains. The e-Niro's ride and handling was therefore always readily adaptable to the introduction of an all-electric powertrain.

The battery pack is located low down in the body, between the two axles, giving the crossover a centre of gravity more akin to that of a saloon or a hatchback. With a relatively wide stance, the e-Niro offers drivers maximum stability and driving enjoyment on winding roads, and minimal body roll under cornering. The car is equipped with fully independent rear suspension, tuned to deliver high stability and immediate handling responses and filter out small vibrations at higher speeds when travelling over poor surfaces.

The e-Niro's regenerative brakes – 305 mm in diameter at the front, 300 mm at the rear – exhibit a consistent, linear deceleration and braking feel, and harvest kinetic energy to recharge the battery pack on the move.

The e-Niro is refined and quiet at low speeds thanks to its all-electric powertrain. The e-Niro boasts an even lower drag co-efficient (0.29 Cd) than Niro Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models (0.30 Cd), suppressing wind noise and enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. This is aided by windscreen glass, a cowl over the front windscreen wipers, specially-profiled door mirror casings and covers over the holes in the roof rails – which sit flush on the bodywork. Road noise is minimised further by high-insulation rigid bushes in the front subframe, high-strength steel in the rear wheel arches, to reduce high frequency vibrations around the rear of the car and additional sound insulation material in the A- and B-pillars.

Charging times

Charging the lithium-ion polymer battery up to 80 per cent only takes 54 minutes using a 100kW direct current (DC) fast charger, or 75 minutes using a 50kW DC charger. With the 7.2kW on-board charger, charging with alternating current (AC) takes 9 hours 50 minutes. Drivers also have the option of charging their car at a compatible regular household power socket using the ICCB-cable (in-cable control box). The charging port is located at the front of the car, underneath a flap that is integrated into the aerodynamically-optimised ‘tiger nose’ grille. Two battery charging cables are supplied with the e-Niro; one with a standard three-pin plug allowing the car to be connected to a domestic socket and a Type 2 to Type 2 cable for connection to a public or workplace charging point.

Engine power, performance, driving range and CO2 emissions

|Model |Power bhp |Torque Nm |0–60 secs |Max speed mph |CO2 g/km |

|‘4’ 64 kWh lithium-ion auto |201 |395 |7.5 |104 |0 |

6 TECHNOLOGY

e-Niro owners have access to a new 10.25-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation system, European mapping and a Traffic Messaging Channel. These are linked to a reversing camera integrated with the navigation screen. It also features Kia Connected Services featuring TomTom® Live. This provides live traffic updates, refreshed once a minute, with suggested alternative routes to avoid congestion; local weather forecasts; local searches under 500 categories, from Kia dealerships and petrol stations to restaurants and supermarkets; and alerts for such things as speed cameras and accident blackspots. Kia Connected Services is free for seven years from the day the car is bought.

At the heart of the e-Niro’s dashboard is Kia’s new 10.25-inch TFT LCD widescreen system, featuring Kia’s new UVO CONNECT telematics system. UVO CONNECT puts a raft of information at owners’ fingertips, including live traffic, weather, and parking availability. For the e-Niro, UVO CONNECT also provides vehicle charging information, including charging station locations, charger availability, and connection compatibility. The system can also be accessed via a UVO smartphone app, providing remote access to a range of vehicle functions. This includes the ability to remotely activate the climate control system, to pre-heat or pre-cool the car before a journey. Users can also remotely stop or resume vehicle charging, enabling them to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity tariffs if charging from a domestic source.

The infotainment system also allows smartphone users access to both Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM. Android AutoTM works with Android smartphones running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher and connects the user's smartphone to the car's infotainment system. Through pre-downloaded apps, it then gives access to a variety of services such as Google Maps navigation, Google Play music, hands-free calls and text messages and voice recognition. Apple CarPlayTM functions with iPhone 5 or newer and enables full Siri voice control of the phone's apps and functions while linking the car to Apple Maps or Google Maps, calls and text dictation, music streaming and audiobooks.

The e-Niro is Bluetooth®-enabled for hands-free phone calls and music streaming and has a DAB radio with MP3 compatibility, while an eight-speaker 320-watt JBL audio system with subwoofer, external amplifier and front centre speaker is standard equipment.

There is also a wireless mobile phone charger, located in the centre console tray, which uses inductive charging to power the batteries of compatible electronic devices. Occupants are therefore able to recharge mobile phones or MP3 players without the inconvenience of wires and connectors, which frequently change when new devices are introduced. The wireless charger features foreign object detection, switches on automatically when a phone is placed upon it and displays the phone's charge status in the instrument cluster. An in-built safety system prevents overheating, while drivers and passengers are warned if they are about to leave the car with the phone still on the charging pad.

7 SAFETY

The e-Niro features a series of Kia’s latest advanced driving assistance and infotainment systems, building on its reputation for high occupant safety and high-tech convenience. There is Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Adaptive Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and a Speed Limiter. A new 10.25-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system with European mapping, a reversing camera system and Kia Connected Services featuring TomTom® Live ensures the car is fully connected, and there is a wireless mobile phone charger to power mobile devices without the need for cables and connectors. And an 8-speaker JBL® premium sound system with a 320-watt external amplifier, subwoofer and front centre speaker, provides concert hall-style in-car entertainment.

The DAB radio-equipped audio system supports Bluetooth® smartphone connectivity and music streaming, along with Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM which, via pre-downloaded apps, links smartphones to navigation, music, hands-free calls, text messaging and voice recognition services.

Preventive safety

The Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian and cyclist detection system brings the car to a halt if the driver fails to react to a potential accident. It uses short- and long-wave radars to monitor the proximity of vehicles and pedestrians in front of the car. If the sensors detect an imminent collision and the driver does not respond, the brakes are applied automatically. The system is split into three main categories:

City, which can avoid low-speed urban accidents at up to 13mph.

Inter-Urban, which operates between 31mph and 50mph.

Pedestrian, which detects pedestrians and other vulnerable road users such as cyclists at up to 44mph.

Adaptive Smart Cruise Control (SCC) maintains the distance to the car ahead, automatically slowing and accelerating the car in accordance with the flow of traffic.

Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) uses a camera behind the rear-view mirror to 'film' the lane ahead of the car. It then passes this information to an electronic control unit which detects the lane and markings. If the control unit recognises that the car has moved out of its lane with no indicators activated, it issues sound and visual alerts to the driver and steers the car back into the lane, if necessary.

8 SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS

With the new e-Niro, Kia is offering a single, well-equipped 4’ grade that encompasses all the essential equipment that an environmentally aware electric vehicle driver needs.

The exterior design of the e-Niro is punctuated by LED headlights with Bi-Function projection, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights and LED rear combination clusters. Privacy glass for the rear windows and tailgate deliver an upmarket appearance. The unique 17-inch alloy wheels have been especially designed and optimised for the pure-electric e-Niro, and the roof rails give a rugged and lifestyle-orientated appearance, accentuating its crossover stance.

Convenience features include rear parking sensors and a reversing system camera, electric windows all round, an auto-dimming rear view mirror and an engine start/stop button with a Smart Entry System. The rear seats handily fold down in a 60/40 fashion, with a luggage area load cover designed to hide items from prying eyes. Other equipment includes rain sensing windscreen wipers, automatic headlight control, automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors and welcome and follow-me-home light functionality, making arriving home late at night safer, lighting the pathway ahead. Occupant safety is taken care of thanks to seven airbags, including one for the driver’s knees, and a cut-off switch so that a child safety chair can be positioned in the front seat. ISOFIX child safety fasteners are also provided for the rear outer seats.

A Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system is standard equipment, designed to prevent accidents due to inattention from the driver. If the system senses that the driver hasn’t reacted to an event ahead, the car can automatically bring the car to a stop or lessen the impact of a crash. Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) uses a windscreen-mounted camera to monitor the vehicle’s position in the lane, with the system able to guide the e-Niro back into the centre of the lane. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) maintains brake pressure on a hill as you switch from the brakes to the accelerator pedal, helping to avoid the car rolling back unintentionally. Other life-saving safety equipment included on all e-Niro models includes Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Emergency Stop Signalling (ESS) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Adaptive Smart Cruise Control (SSC) works in association with all of the other safety systems on the car to keep a safe distance from the car in front, slowing down and speeding up automatically according to the flow of the traffic. If another vehicle cuts in front, the system will automatically brake and adjust the speed of the e-Niro until a safe distance is once again achieved.

In-car entertainment has never been more important, and that’s why the e-Niro is fitted with a DAB radio and Kia’s latest 10.25-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system with European mapping and Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC). In addition, Kia Connected Services includes TomTom® Live that incorporates traffic, speed cameras, local search and weather updates. UVO CONNECT puts a raft of information at owners’ fingertips, including live traffic, weather, and parking availability. UVO CONNECT also provides vehicle charging information, including charging station locations, charger availability, and connection compatibility. The system can also be accessed via a UVO smartphone app, providing remote access to a range of vehicle functions.

As well as Bluetooth® with music streaming, the e-Niro includes Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM with voice control. An 8-speaker, 320-watt JBL® premium sound system with subwoofer, external amplifier and front centre speaker is provided for music aficionados, and a wireless mobile phone charger is provided for Qi-equipped smartphones. As an alternative, a fast charge USB port is incorporated into the centre console, and both auxiliary and standard USB ports are provided.

Black leather upholstery, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel all come fitted to the e-Niro, alongside a leather trimmed steering wheel, gear lever and armrests. A satin finish for the interior door handles, stainless-steel door scuff plates and high gloss black surfaces for the fascia, lower console, door inserts and steering wheel deliver a classy, modern aesthetic.

9 WARRANTY AND AFTER-CARE

Kia set a new benchmark in 2007 when it launched the cee'd with an industry-best seven-year/100,000-mile warranty. That demonstration of faith in the quality and reliability of Kia products was subsequently extended to every model.

A major benefit is that it is transferable to subsequent owners at no charge, as long as the seven-year time limit has not been reached and the mileage is below 100,000.

The mechanical warranty is supported by a 12-year anti-perforation warranty and a five-year paint warranty.

Servicing is required every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes soonest. The e-Niro is available with Kia’s ‘Kia Care’ service plans, which have been developed to provide customers with a wide range of service plan options for any Kia model within the first seven years of the vehicle’s life – matching its industry-leading seven-year warranty.

The service plans include a comprehensive range of options including the original, traditional, first, third and fifth services and those in between, but in addition a customer can now purchase services up to and including the seventh service which matches the full length of the warranty. The plans are available for all Kia owners and can be purchased at any point of ownership for cars up to five years old.

The Kia Promise was introduced to give customers the best ownership experience by giving them access to seven key benefits. The Kia Promise is activated after purchase and is done by simply registering on the online portal, MyKia. Along with the industry leading seven-year/100,000 mile warranty, other benefits of the Kia Promise include complimentary seven day insurance and £250 Insurance Excess Return for one year; easy to use Click & Collect on Genuine Kia accessories; convenient online service booking; Family-Like Care and Accident AfterCare. Every new Kia also comes with complimentary Roadside Assistance for 12 months. When a customer registers on MyKia, Kia Roadside Assistance Plus, the highest level of cover provided by the RAC, can be unlocked, which includes onward travel and European cover.

10 FIVE MINUTES WITH PAUL PHILPOTT

Burning questions that you would love to ask our President and CEO

Q. How important is the e-Niro to Kia in the UK?

The launch of Kia’s second electric vehicle in Europe delivers a clear message that Kia is serious about its environmental responsibilities. The launch of the e-Niro, a vehicle that has a class-leading range of 282 miles, adds to the choice that buyers have, with three carefully-focussed Niro models to suit different budgets, needs and priorities – e-Niro, Niro PHEV and Niro Hybrid.

Q. What sales targets have you set for the new e-Niro for the UK market?

We don’t release sales or production targets for individual models; however, we expect the e-Niro to build on the achievements of the Niro Hybrid and PHEV so far and continue to account for a significant sales volume of electrified vehicles here in the UK. Looking at the sales statistics up until the end of September 2018, we have already exceeded the figures achieved during 2017, when we sold more than 4,000 examples of the Niro Hybrid and 296 Niro PHEV models. Bear in mind that the Niro PHEV only went on sale on 1st September 2017, and so was only on sale for one-third of the year.

Q. How challenging has 2020 been?

When the Coronavirus hit in March, it had a devastating effect on the sale of new and used cars, particularly as it is traditionally the biggest month of the year thanks to the registration plate change. As a result, the UK market was down by 44.4 per cent in March compared to 2019, although Kia fared somewhat better, with new car registrations lower by 29 per cent.

With car showrooms closed throughout the mandated lockdown period and only allowed to reopen from June, our retailers have been playing catch up ever since. I am extremely proud of the dealer network we have, and as a result of their hard work, we have had a record-breaking August, with an all-time high of 4,179 new car deliveries. That’s the highest number of cars delivered during an August month, ever. Kia’s sales were up by 21 per cent compared to August 2019 and it is a strong comeback following the COVID-19 lockdown.

But we can’t rest on our laurels, and it is expected that the rest of the year will prove to be tough, with uncertainty in the jobs market and an end to the Government’s support schemes for businesses. We enter this period with one of the strongest model ranges ever, with the new Sorento set to wow customers with its premium cabin and excellent road manners. Joining the Sorento in showrooms this autumn are refreshed versions of Kia’s small car ranges, the Picanto, Rio and Stonic. They all feature brand new ‘SmartStream’ engines and mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) technology features for the first time in the Rio and Stonic ranges. In addition, Kia’s phase II UVO Connect infotainment system is being rolled out right the way across the model line-up.

Looking at other challenges of 2020, even before the pandemic hit it was already going to be a hugely challenging year for UK businesses, with uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the UK’s split from Europe. With a significant number of our most popular cars built within the European Union – Ceed family and Sportage – it has been necessary to plan for the worst scenario possible as we edge towards 2021.

And if those challenges weren’t enough, tougher emissions regulations also came into force in 2020, with new, even more stringent standards that means that every car maker must achieve a CO2 average of 95g/km across their product range. Failure to do so will mean significant fines, and so the primacy focus of Kia Motors is to achieve the fleet CO2 average of 95g/km, across the line-up. This may become even tougher in 2021 when the UK is separate and is no longer part of the European figures.

Q. Which vehicles are striking a chord with UK buyers currently?

For many people, the Coronavirus lockdown was a time to reflect on their lives, with many aspects of daily routine examined. The sale of alternatively fuelled vehicles has accelerated over the past few months, and in particular the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) segment has risen from 1.4 per cent at the turn of the year to 4.7 per cent in August. While those are still small figures, it shows there is a growing appetite for zero and ultra-low emission cars.

And that’s an area that Kia is investing strongly in and I’m proud to say that our Niro SUV was the most popular alternatively fuelled vehicle in August 2020, outselling the second placed car by almost two-to-one. 1,417 examples of the pure electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle were delivered to UK customers. In the past we have faced significant supply restrictions of e-Niro, but this is now improving, and our customers have been happy to wait.

During 2020, we are aiming for three in every ten cars we sell to be electrified in some way. With both the pure electric e-Niro and Soul EV, we are ahead of the curve in offering customers a choice of electric solutions to solve their mobility issues. For those that prefer a plug-in hybrid vehicle, we now have three, thanks to the recently refreshed Niro and the newly introduced Ceed Sportswagon and all-new XCeed. The Sorento PHEV will make that four when it arrives early next year. The top selling Sportage is fitted with mild hybrid technology on all of the diesel variants and this technology will soon be available on the Ceed, Ceed Sportswagon and XCeed, too.

There is also a continued trend for customers to migrate away from traditional sectors towards SUVs, and we’re in a perfect position to deliver on the changing demand, with six key products in the Kia portfolio – Stonic, Soul EV, Niro, XCeed, Sportage and Sorento.

11 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've anticipated what you're likely to ask us

Q. What is the importance to Kia of electric vehicles?

A. The electric market is growing rapidly, not just in the UK but in Europe, too, and we want a share of it. But of greater significance, is that all manufacturers are required to lower average CO2 emissions to 95g/km or less in Europe by 2020/21, and electric and electrified vehicles are essential to achieve this. We also have our own internal targets of a 25 per cent reduction in average CO2 emissions, based on 2014 levels, by 2020.

Q. Why do you offer electric, PHEV and hybrid Niro models?

A. We believe in giving customers choice in cutting-edge technology, with different degrees of electrification being suited to a wide range of customers. And while there is a growing number of buyers wanting to buy into the technology and demonstrate their environmental credentials, not all our customer’s lifestyles allow them to run a pure electric vehicle. For that reason, we also offer plug-in hybrid technology that allows zero tailpipe emissions running, together with the back-up of a combustion engine to allow the coverage of longer distances when required. And our Niro dedicated parallel hybrid delivers efficiency gains to reduce running costs at relatively little expense.

Q. What level of sales is Niro achieving in the UK, and is it mostly a fleet or retail car?

A. The Niro is another of Kia’s success stories, and in the first 9 months of this year, we have already surpassed the sales figures for the entire of 2017, when we sold more than 4,000 examples of the Niro Hybrid and just under 300 Niro PHEV models, with the latter only going on sale on 1st September 2017. The vast majority of PHEV registrations will be to fleets, for obvious cost and taxation benefit reasons.

Q. Is the e-Niro on sale at every Kia dealership, and can all dealers service it because of the extra safety demands when working with electric components?

A. Every Kia dealer has at least one technician plus a Kia Master Technician trained in handling the high-voltage systems associated with electrified cars, so the e-Niro will be sold at, and can be serviced at, any Kia dealership in the UK. Model-specific training is provided at two-day courses to coincide with the launch of each new Kia electric vehicle.

Q. In Europe there’s the option of a 39kWh e-Niro – why isn’t it sold in the UK?

A. We have taken the decision to simplify the e-Niro line-up for UK buyers and we will just sell the class-leading 282-mile range e-Niro with 64kWh electric motor as it has the most sales potential. The choice of two power outputs and different maximum driving ranges could potentially confuse customers with multiple messages, and so we wanted to concentrate on a single strong product with a clear understanding about its environmental credentials and its class-leading driving range.

Ends

For further information on Kia please visit or contact:

| | |

|Stephen Kitson |E: skitson@kia.co.uk   |

|Director of Corporate Communications |T: 01932 832075 M: 07795 011 936 |

|Daniel Sayles |E: dsayles@kia.co.uk   |

|Head of Press and PR |T: 01932 832073 M: 07747 149 149 |

|Sara Robinson      |E: srobinson@kia.co.uk |

|Public Relations Manager (Brand & Dealer PR) |T: 01932 832072 M: 07919 482 332 |

|Moyosola Fujamade |E: mfujamade@kia.co.uk   |

|Senior Press Officer (events) |T: 01932 832069 M: 07471 216 343 |

|Lauren Martin |E: lmartin@kia.co.uk |

|Press Officer (press fleet) |T: 01932 832071 M: 07557 268 252 |

|Will Rees |E: wrees@kia.co.uk |

|Press Office Assistant |T: 01932 832079 M: 07795 011 475 |

| | |

Follow Kia on Twitter @KiaUKPR

Follow Kia at kiamotorsuk

Watch Kia at kiamotorsuk

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New e-Niro press pack

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