As Kia Philippines debunked some of the common myths that surround electric vehicle (EV) ownership to relieve fears of vehicle buyers and further push for its usage in the country.
During a roundtable meeting, Kia Philippines Product Strategy and Planning Director Josh Altarejos shared some key points about the upcoming roll-out of the EV6.
The vehicle, which was the centerpiece of the Ayala-backed distributor’s display at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), is confirmed to have below-P4-million price tag.
Altarejos said that charging the vehicle can be charged as fast as 50 minutes to 10 hours, depending on the type of charger that will be used to juice it up.
According to him, the time is ample for its target market for the offering, which are the executives. He cited that normally, the said group usually drives around 50 kilometers (km) of road and stays at home for about 10 hours.
Apart from that, EV owners can alternatively take advantage of the DC chargers that are found in several establishments already. This station, Altarejos said, EV owners can charge the batteries from 10 percent to 80 percent in as fast as 73 minutes (50kW) or even 18 minutes (350kW).
In terms of charging station availability, he reiterated that Ayala Land (the property developer arm of the conglomerate in which Kia Philippines belongs) has already rolled out 21 charging stations in seven cities within Luzon.
Further, he also said that the battery specification of the Kia EV6 forthcoming can help dispel range anxiety as the model has 528 kilometer-range. In fact, a team from Kia Philippines went from AC motors Centrale in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig to Baguio Loakan Airport “with no worries” amid the 251-kilometer-per-way trip. The vehicle’s regenerative charging filled up the battery cells with power anew on their way back to Metro Manila.
Meanwhile, Kia Philippines Aftersales Director Rommel Ramos also noted that maintaining electric-powered models such as the incoming EV6 is easier since it does not need engine oils, transmission fluids, and other lubricants compared to those powered by internal combustion engines (ICE).
The company said that during the course of five years, the Kia EV6 will only need to have its brake pads, brake fluid, air-conditioning filters, and wiper blades replaced.
In terms of cost in energy, the Kia EV6 range is rated at 528km at 77KwH which is only P800 when charging at home — notably cheaper than the P2,400 fuel cost of a midsize sport utility vehicle covering a similar distance.
Lastly, safety is assured with Kia EV6. It has already received a five-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) and was bestowed with the 2022 European Car of the Year award.
Its safety features include auto emergency braking technology; blind spot detection technology; rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist; lane keeping and following assist technology; smart cruise control with stop and go function; highway driving assist; safe exit assist; and 360-degree surround view camera.
Its battery management system utilizes lithium-ion battery cells that are enclosed with an IP 66 casing. These are mounted low to the ground and on the floor. However, Kia Philippines has yet to provide the EV6’s official water-wading depth.
In the event of water intrusion, the Kia EV6 automatically shuts off the EV system. For peace of mind, Kia Philippines has systems in place to diagnose whether an EV6 has been exposed to flooding. EV6-specific equipment is available to address the aforementioned concern and is supported with parts availability and world-class trained technicians.
“Our one true message to the public aims to open their eyes to the reality and potential of EVs, and that Kia Philippines is here to make EV ownership convenient, worry-free, and enjoyable,” Kia Philippines president Manny Aligada said.
“When the public eventually embraces our EVs, then Kia Philippines also fulfills its social responsibility and solid commitment to sustainable mobility, sustainable energy, and a sustainable planet. Soon, the Philippines will also reap the benefits of the environment-friendly shift towards greener motoring.”
Photos from Ruben D. Manahan IV, Kia Philippines
Also read:
Kia PH to launch EV6 at 8th PIMS
Kia unveils its first-ever battery electric vehicle, the EV6
Spacious and sustainable: Kia EV6 shows amazing cabin space trickery
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