Kia Soul EV prototype caught winter testing ahead of 2015 launch
Kia’s electric Soul has been spotted undergoing cold-weather tests in Sweden, hinting at a public debut later in 2014 and a market launch as a 2015 model.
Kia’s all-electric Soul has been photographed during winter testing in Sweden, revealing the South Korean manufacturer’s progress towards a 2015 market launch. The camouflaged prototype, seen in icy conditions, is the first clear evidence that a production Soul EV is nearing completion.
The test car’s heavy camouflage covers the front and rear, but several details mark it out as the electric variant. There is no visible exhaust system, and the wheels and tyres appear to be specific to an EV, supporting earlier speculation that Kia would develop a battery-powered Soul for global markets.
Kia introduced the current-generation Soul in autumn 2013, and the company has since confirmed plans to expand the range. The EV is expected to be the first fully electric Kia offered outside Korea, targeting buyers looking for a practical, compact crossover with zero tailpipe emissions. The car’s upright stance and boxy proportions remain unchanged from the standard model, but the prototype’s disguised bumpers may hide aerodynamic tweaks to improve range.
Electric Soul details remain under wraps
Technical specifications have yet to be confirmed. Previous reports suggest the Soul EV will use a lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor capable of delivering city-friendly performance. Range, charging times and battery capacity have not been disclosed, but the Soul’s platform should allow for a practical battery size without compromising interior space.
Pricing rumours place the Soul EV at around €22,000, positioning it against other small electric vehicles. If confirmed, this would make it a direct rival to models such as the Nissan Leaf and the Renault Zoe, though official figures from Kia have not been released.
Cold-weather testing in Sweden
The choice of Sweden for winter testing suggests Kia is validating the Soul EV’s battery and drivetrain performance in harsh conditions. Cold-weather durability is a key concern for electric vehicles, as low temperatures can reduce battery efficiency and range. Successful testing in these conditions would help Kia reassure buyers in northern Europe and other cold markets.
- No exhaust system visible on prototype
- EV-specific wheels and tyres fitted
- Heavy camouflage on front and rear bumpers
A public debut for the Soul EV is expected later in 2014, with sales to follow as a 2015 model. Kia has not confirmed launch markets or production numbers. For more on other Kia developments, see Kia Soul EV prototype spotted testing ahead of 2015 launchand Kia Ghost Soul Limited Edition Targets US Market with 1,100 Units
