The Kia PV5 Passenger multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) and the EV4 hatchback are now eligible for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG), meaning buyers can deduct £1,500 from the purchase price of both models. This makes Kia a more competitive player in the EV market, especially for buyers seeking value.
Price Positioning and Market Impact
The EV grant brings the PV5 Passenger’s starting price to £31,495, significantly undercutting its main competitor, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. Meanwhile, the EV4 starts at £33,245, positioning it between the Renault Megane and Cupra Born in terms of price.
According to Paul Philpott, Kia UK’s president and CEO, the grant’s inclusion underscores the brand’s dedication to affordable electric mobility. The move is strategic, as the ECG helps Kia challenge established EV brands on price while maintaining quality.
PV5 Passenger: New Sales Channel and Specs
The PV5 Passenger is sold exclusively through Kia’s new Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) centers, a departure from traditional dealerships. This shift suggests Kia is testing a more specialized sales approach for its commercial and family-focused EVs. The vehicle comes standard with a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty, adding confidence for buyers.
Two trim levels – Essential and Plus – and two battery options are available: a Standard Range (183 miles) and a Long Range (256 miles). Standard features include seating for five, a large 12.9-inch touchscreen, a 7.5-inch driver display, and sliding side doors for easy access.
EV4 Hatchback: Pricing and Range Options
Only the base-spec EV4 Air qualifies for the full £1,500 ECG discount due to pricing thresholds. However, even in base form, it includes a 12.3-inch digital driver display, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, heated seats, and adaptive cruise control.
Buyers can choose between a 58.3 kWh battery (273 miles) or upgrade to an 81.4 kWh battery (388 miles) for an additional £2,200. This flexibility allows buyers to balance upfront cost with real-world range requirements.
The inclusion of these models in the ECG scheme is a win for consumers, lowering the barrier to entry for electric vehicles and intensifying competition in the EV market.
Kia’s move aligns with growing demand for affordable EVs, and the PV5 Passenger’s unique sales channel could set a precedent for other brands. The combination of price, features, and warranty makes both models strong contenders in the UK’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.
