Could the Kia Ray EV Be the Perfect City Car?

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Kia has revamped the Ray with an electric powertrain. This new generation retains the original’s boxy charm while offering significant range, performance, and technology improvements.

Thus Kia introduced the next-generation Ray subcompact, exclusively available in South Korea, with a fully electric drivetrain option. The all-new Ray EV is powered by a 35.2-kWh LFP battery, generating nearly 100 horsepower and offering a driving range of 130 miles.

Designed specifically for the South Korean domestic market, the Ray EV is set to hit the roads with a starting price under $21,000.

While the Kia EV6 has garnered attention in the U.S. for its innovative design, practicality, and affordability, it is far from the smallest or most cost-effective electric vehicle (EV) in Kia’s lineup.

The Evolution of a City Car

The first-generation Ray was initially launched as a versatile city car, available in both gas-powered and electric variants. Kia has kept this model exclusive to its home market in South Korea, where it caters to the demand for compact city vehicles, known locally as “gyeongcha.”

The new Ray EV will be equipped with a 35.2-kWh LFP battery, driving a single electric motor that delivers 86 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque.

While these performance figures might not be groundbreaking, they are well-suited for the vehicle’s intended purpose as an efficient city commuter.

The Ray EV offers a range of 130 miles on a single charge, all for an entry-level price of around $20,600. This makes it not only more affordable but also more capable than competitors like the Mini Cooper SE Electric, which features a slightly smaller battery and a higher price tag.

Modern Features in a Compact Package

Despite its unassuming exterior, the Ray EV is far from basic. Kia has packed this city car with modern safety features and driver assistance technologies, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride.

The Ray EV also provides seating for four passengers along with a modest amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for urban drivers.

Key Features of the New Ray EV:

• Improved range: A larger battery pack provides a more substantial driving distance compared to its predecessor.
• Enhanced performance: A more powerful electric motor delivers better acceleration and overall driving experience.
• Modern interior: The cabin features a contemporary design with updated technology and features.
• Boxy practicality: The iconic boxy shape remains, offering ample interior space and versatility.

Filling a Gap in the Market

The segment for subcompact electric city cars has been largely vacant since the discontinuation of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, despite a few larger contenders like the Mini Cooper SE Electric and the Mazda MX-30 still being available.

However, these models come with higher price points and have not made a significant impact on the market, with the Mazda MX-30 already being phased out due to low sales numbers.

The concept of a small electric city car, similar to those popular in Europe and Asia, might not have seemed like a viable market in the U.S. during the time the Mitsubishi i-MiEV was available.

However, given the rising costs of vehicles, particularly those marketed as affordable EVs, the appeal of a simple, modest-range city car has grown significantly in recent years.

A Missed Opportunity for the U.S. Market?

It’s important to note that Kia currently has no plans to bring the Ray EV to the U.S. market, as the model remains exclusive to South Korea. However, the growing demand for affordable, small EVs in the U.S. makes one wonder if such a vehicle could succeed stateside if marketed correctly.

Interestingly, just as Smart exited the U.S. market, the brand pivoted to an all-electric lineup, offering compact and stylish EVs. Had Smart stayed a little longer in North America, it might have found a receptive audience, especially considering the current shortage of small yet capable electric vehicles.

Kia Ray EV Price in India

The Kia Ray EV is not currently available in India. While it has been launched in other markets and has garnered attention for its affordable price point, Kia India has not made any official announcements regarding its introduction in the Indian market.

The estimated starting price for the Kia Ray EV in India is around Rs. 16.91 lakh. This makes it a potential competitor to the Tata Nano and other entry-level electric cars in the Indian market.

The Future of Small EVs

There is some good news on the horizon for small EV enthusiasts in the U.S. The upcoming Fiat 500e is expected to help fill this much-needed niche. However, the overall trend in the automotive industry leans toward larger crossover vehicles, meaning that the streets are unlikely to be flooded with affordable, small EVs anytime soon.

So, could a city electric car like the Ray EV perform well in the U.S. market, or is the segment too niche for automakers to explore at this time? Share your thoughts in the comments below.