After the successful "hamster" advertisement of the new 2015 Kia Soul EV, Kia Motors America is ready to introduce the electric vehicle to the market. The hugely popular urban passenger car in its electrifying trim boasts best-in-class EPA-estimated range of 93 miles and MPGe4 of 92 miles on the highway, 120 miles in the city and 105 miles combined. In addition, the model received industry-first automotive environmental validation by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) due to its innovative use of bio-based materials in the interior.

2015 Kia Soul EV is company's first mass-market electric vehicle and it is the centerpiece of the Kia's Clean Mobility program. The zero-emissions EV keeps the funky style and functionality of the Soul model, but it also introduces new and more aerodynamic styling cues.

The car features a 27 kWh lithium ion polymer battery which powers the electric motor. The motor produces 110 hp (81 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb.-ft.) of maximum torque, and drives the front wheels. The range that it can cover is around 80-100 miles.

The standard specifications of the Soul EV Base include an array of features such as navigation, Rear Camera Display, Bluetooth hands free operation, power windows, power driver's seat, cruise control, 6.6kW on-board charger. The exclusive HVAC system is also included, and it was designed to extend driving range by minimizing energy draw.

Moreover, every Soul EV comes standard with UVO EV Services that provide real-time battery-level status, distance to empty, and the ability to search for nearby charging stations. There is also an UVO EV smartphone app, which owners can use to preset charging time and charging level ratios, as well as precondition the vehicle cabin with remote control of the HVAC presets.

The next trim is called Soul EV Plus and it adds EV-unique leather trimmed seats, which are tri-level heated and ventilated for front passengers. The rear outboard seats are heated for added comfort. The Plus also includes projection-style fog lamps and power-folding outside mirrors.

2015 Kia Soul EV has a starting price of $33,700 USD and is currently available to order.

Source: Kia