Kia introduces cheaper EV6 model with smaller battery

Kia has expanded the EV6 line-up to include a new entry-level model that costs less than £40,000.

The EV6 Air Standard Range is fitted with a 63kWh battery, promising a range of up to 265 miles.

At £39,235, the new model escapes the 'premium vehicle tax'. It also benefits from having a lower insurance group.

Previously, the EV6 was only available with an 84kWh battery, priced from £45,575.

The smaller battery uses the same 800V charging capabilities as the wider EV6 range. As such, the new variant remains capable of charging from 10-to-80% in as little as 18 minutes from a 350kW DC charger.

It is paired with a single electric motor, outputting 169PS. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 8.7 seconds.

Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, heated front seats and steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a panoramic driver display and touchscreen with navigation (formed of two 12.3-inch curved displays), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and seven years’ free Kia Connect telematics services.

The interior of the EV6 Air Standard Range is finished in black cloth and artificial leather.

Orders are open for the new model, with first customer deliveries due to start from later in May.