Why The Kia EV6 Needs To Beat the Chevy Bolt and Forget Tesla
The Kia EV6, introduced at the end of March, stands poised to change the electric vehicle market with its stunning looks. Some might think it’s focused on Tesla but it’s true competition is going to be the Chevy Bolt.
And that’s some tough competition. The Bolt has a bit of a head start and is winning early praise. U.S. News and World Report, where I used to work, named it the Best Electric Vehicle for its range, practical interior and handling. It also comes at a good price of $36,500.
So, why does the EV6 need to beat the Bolt and not the Tesla? Or even the Ford Mustang Mach-E? The Bolt is going to own the mainstream electric vehicle market for years to come. Volume is going to come from practical buyers: Tesla and the Mach-E aren’t going to appeal to that segment.
What does Kia need to promote about the EV6 to win the battle? Topping the list would be the 800V ultra-fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes; about 60 miles in less than 4.5 minutes. Then it needs to market the heck out of how 4.5 minutes isn’t that long.
The next thing to do is pitch its roominess. This compact has a 115-inch wheelbase but a cabin space similar to many mid-size SUVs. There is 18 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats when up; 46 cubic feet when down. Again, focus on the practicality.
The last thing to look at is technology. Highway driving assist and remote parking assist are two features that should be standard on all EV6 models.
Kia is not going to win the glamour or performance battle with its EV6. It needs to fight the Bolt on the practical front to win this war. It doesn’t hurt that it’s a great looking vehicle, though.
What do you think the main competition is for the Kia V6? Is it the Bolt or something else? Comment below.
Also See a New Development from KIA
KIA online showroom for electric models now open until 10PM in Germany because of high customer demand. From Wednesday to Friday, KIA customers can now also receive advice in the late evening via live video chat on the vehicle.-https://t.co/g17OkA2uUY-#KIA #KIAEV pic.twitter.com/aedmYSPhd8— Torque News (@torquenewsauto) April 22, 2021
Keith Griffin covers Hyundai and Kia at Torque News. He has been writing continuously about cars since 2002. Keith used to be a researcher/writer for US News & World Report, as well as numerous car sites, including Carfax and Car Gurus, and a contributor to The Boston Globe. Most recently, Keith was the managing editor for American Business Media. Follow Keith at @indepthauto on Twitter, on @LinkedIn and on his Indepth Auto Facebook page.