Amid the rising war in the electric automaker industry, Kia has introduced its new Syros SUV last week. However the automaker has already launched the gas-powered engine version of the car but now the brand is planning to launch the all-electric version to the market soon.
India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is on the brink of explosive growth. By the end of 2024, the market is expected to reach a valuation of approximately $24 billion, and projections suggest this number could soar to nearly $118 billion by 2032.
Recognizing this shift, Kia Motors is gearing up to capitalize on the booming demand. Since debuting in India with the launch of the Seltos in 2019, Kia has quickly established itself as one of the top 10 automakers in the region, positioning the brand to play a significant role in India’s EV transformation.
The brand already has a huge line up including the Sonet, Carnival, Caren and electric EV6 and EV9 SUVs. And also added the new electric version of Kia Syros. Kia called the compact SUV “revolutionary,” but there’s one problem: it only has two gas-powered engine options. That will soon change. According to Autocar India, Kia will launch the Syros EV in India in early 2025.
While specific details remain under wraps, the upcoming Kia Syros EV is expected to share its K1 platform with the Hyundai Inster EV. Hyundai’s compact electric crossover offers two battery options: a 42 kWh pack with a range of 300 km (186 miles) and a 49 kWh pack delivering up to 355 km (220 miles) on the WLTP cycle.
In Europe, the Inster EV is priced at approximately $30,000, while in Korea, it goes by the name Casper Electric, with prices starting at around $20,000, including government incentives. This pricing strategy highlights the affordability and versatility of the platform, making it well-suited for a variety of markets.
Kia’s upcoming electric SUV is anticipated to launch with a price range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (approximately $17,500 to $23,500, ex-showroom). While the powertrain will transition to electric, the EV is expected to retain the same styling and features as its gas-powered counterparts.
Kia projects combined sales of 50,000 to 60,000 units for the electric Carens and Syros EV models by 2026. This effort is part of Kia’s broader strategy to introduce more affordable, mass-market EVs globally, including models like the EV3, EV4, and EV5, as the automaker positions itself as a key player in the transition to electric vehicles.
