Kia Reveals EV6 Specs, Unveils High-Performance GT Model

author: Vineeth Joel Patel   

Earlier this March, Kia took the wraps off of the EV6, a highly-anticipated electric vehicle that's the first vehicle to utilize the brand's new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). The EV6 crossover also marks the beginning of Kia's electrification goals. While we saw the EV6 in its entirety in the middle of March, Kia just recently provided some more specifications on the EV, including the introduction of a high-performance model called the GT.

Kia EV6 And Hyundai Ioniq 5 Are Twins

Just like the new Hyundai Ioniq 5, which will also utilize the E-GMP, the EV6 will be available in both rear- and all-wheel-drive layouts, as well as two battery pack sizes. The entry-level EV6 will be offered with a 58-kWh battery pack with RWD. The electric crossover can also be fitted with the larger 77.4-kWh battery pack with RWD for an estimated range of 317 miles on the WLTP cycle. While the EPA's figures will certainly be lower, the EV6 is stacking up to be competitive for its size. The Standard trim with RWD is rated at 168 horsepower, while the AWD configuration is rated at 232 horsepower. Long Range trims are rated at 225 horsepower with RWD and 321 hp with AWD.

Kia claims the EV6 comes with a customizable braking system that lets drivers choose between six different regeneration modes. The least aggressive one is similar to coasting when not under acceleration, while the most aggressive one offers one-pedal driving by being able to bring the vehicle to a full stop without the driver pushing the brake pedal. An Auto setting is also available that chooses the right amount of regeneration depending on driving style.

Since a lot of consumers live in areas that get some kind of inclement weather, Kia has fitted the EV6 with a high-tech generation heat-pump thermal management system. Thanks to the system, the EV6 will be able to retain up to 80 percent of its optimal range at temperatures as low as 19 degrees Fahrenheit. This should also help increase the battery's lifespan for consumers that regularly see cold weather.

The EV6 has impressive charging capability. The EV features a new Integrated Charging Control Unit that brings 800-volt ultrafast charging compatibility. If you can find a charger with that kind of juice, you're looking at going from 10 percent of range up to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. The charging system also has vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality like the Ioniq 5. This feature allows the EV6 to charge 3.6-kW electronics, appliances, and other EVs.

New GT Trim Is Impressive

At the top of the EV6 range sits the high-performance GT trim. It comes with the larger 77.4-kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. Combined output is rated at 577 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque. Those figures are good enough to see the EV6 GT go from zero to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 162 mph. An electronic limited-slip differential is unique for the trim level and should bring improved handling attributes to the trim.

"The GT version of the EV6 demonstrates our technological leadership through its combination of outstanding high-speed charging and acceleration performance like a super sports car," Albert Biermann, head of research and development for Hyundai Motor Group, said in a statement.

Kia is looking to bring 11 new battery-powered electric vehicles to market by 2026. The new EV6 is just one of the models, but there will be many more in the future, as the brand expects 40 percent of its total sales to come from electrified vehicles. Sales of the EV6 are expected to begin in the second half of 2021.

Vineeth Joel Patel

Joel Patel has been covering all aspects of the automotive industry for four years as an editor and freelance writer for various websites. When it comes to cars, he enjoys covering the merger between technology and cars. In his spare time, Joel likes to watch baseball, work on his car, and try new foods