Kia Soul ev range rest: the results

Dedicated video proves the Kia Soul EV can better its homologated 132 mile range
Range test completed in mixed UK road and weather conditions
13% battery charge remaining after range test
Since the Kia Soul EV's UK launch in October 2014, its homologated range of 132 miles has been a positive talking point as it brings a new benchmark to its class. To prove this statement of excellence, Kia Motors UK set up a real-world range test, neutrally conducted by external eco and green car experts, Next Green Car.

Navigating the highs and lows of Somerset and Wiltshire's cities, towns, villages and countryside, a specially designed route was planned to ensure all road types and traffic environments were included. Bristol's bumper to bumper traffic, huge descents and ascents of sweeping countryside road network, busy A and B roads, plus the high speed demands of the M4 were all part of the route to ensure real world accuracy, and to replicate many consumers' daily journeys.

Bringing further authenticity to the test, the weather was not favourable. With an average temperature of 8 degrees centigrade throughout the day, coupled with both light and heavy rain, it dampened performance slightly, triggered heavier traffic and used more battery power for on board heating, screen wipers and headlights. In addition to these factors the driver was using satellite navigation, heated seats and radio, as with every day driving.

The video, which features all elements of the test and includes regular reference to the on-board trip computer and range expectation display, explains the results in full.

The full range achieved on this test was 125.3 miles, with a conservative estimate of a further nine miles shown on the display; equalling a total range potential of 134.9 miles. A diagnostics report run on the vehicle soon after the test showed the battery still had 13% battery remaining, which equates to 15 miles when calculated against the homologated range of 132, meaning a realistic potential range of 140.3. The likelihood is there were more miles to be had considering the Soul EV's intelligent regenerative braking system, teamed with available driver controlled functions to extend range - limited use of on-board electronics, air conditioning, driving frugally etc.

Since the Kia Soul EV's launch in October 2014 it has impressed with its class leading battery technology, homologated range, high level of equipment, excellent driving experience and everyday practicality. This range test not only proves the Soul EV is fully capable of its stated performance figures, but also that it operates above expectation in normal UK road conditions and scenarios.

The Kia Soul EV range test video is copyright free and can be downloaded for use on media websites and social media free of charge.

For further information on the Kia Soul EV please visit www.kiapressoffice.com or contact:

Stephen Kitson
skitson@kia.co.uk Corporate Communications Director
01932 832075 - 07795 011936
Daniel Sayles
dsayles@kia.co.uk Press Relations Manager
01932 832073 - 07747 149149
Sara Robinson
srobinson@kia.co.uk Senior Press Officer
01932 832072 - 07919 482332
Carly Escritt
cescritt@kia.co.uk Press Officer (Press Fleet)
01932 832071 - 07557 262252
Rebecca Gibson
rgibson@kia.co.uk Press Office Assistant
01932 832079 - 07795 011475
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