After making waves with the quirky EV2 concept earlier this year, Kia appears to be inching closer to unveiling an even more compact entry into the electric car market. Recent developments suggest that the long-rumored EV1—a city-focused EV targeting budget-conscious buyers—is more than just a speculative idea.
According to recent U.S. trademark filings, Kia has secured the names “EV1 Land” and “EV1 Wave”, signaling possible lifestyle variants of its upcoming electric city car. While these trademark applications don’t confirm production, they offer a compelling glimpse into Kia’s creative approach to electrified urban mobility.
From Filing Cabinet to Showroom?
Historically, automakers often reserve names long before vehicles make it to production. As such, the “Land” and “Wave” suffixes may simply point to future design directions or concept offshoots. Still, the imagery is clear: EV1 Land suggests a slightly rugged, possibly crossover-inspired variant for light outdoor adventure, while EV1 Wave evokes beachside cruising—maybe even with a convertible top.
The EV1’s DNA: Affordable, Practical, and Purpose-Built
Though Kia hasn’t officially pulled the wraps off the EV1, its strategy seems aligned with capturing the small EV segment that remains underserved in many markets. Similar in spirit to the gasoline-powered Kia Picanto, the EV1 is expected to ride on a cost-optimized version of the E-GMP platform, the same modular base underpinning the EV3 and future EV2.
To keep pricing competitive—likely under €25,000—the EV1 will likely use a 400-volt electrical system rather than the faster-charging 800V setup found in premium Kia EVs like the EV6. This trade-off makes sense: in city use, charging speed often takes a back seat to convenience and affordability.
The EV1 is tipped to be front-wheel drive, with a small battery offering just enough range for urban daily use. While not ideal for long road trips, this setup is perfect for zero-emission commuting and urban errands. Kia might eventually explore a sportier GT version, but that remains speculative.
The Race to Affordable EVs
Kia is far from alone in this space. Volkswagen is pushing forward with its ID.1/ID.2all strategy, promising a €20,000 entry-level EV by 2027. It too registered the ID.1 name years in advance, highlighting how carefully planned this segment’s battleground really is.
As urban centers continue to tighten emissions rules and customers demand practical, affordable EV options, automakers like Kia, VW, and Renault are jostling for early advantage.
What’s Next for Kia’s EV Lineup?
Kia aims to launch at least 15 new electric models globally by 2027, spanning everything from compact crossovers like the upcoming EV5, to pick-up trucks, and eventually a flagship EV7 SUV. Enthusiasts hoping for a Stinger-style sports EV may need to wait longer—plans for a dedicated electric sports sedan seem to be on pause for now.
For now, the spotlight is shifting to the smallest player in the family. If the EV1 delivers on its promise, it could become a cornerstone of Kia’s urban electrification strategy, much like the Picanto once defined small, efficient ICE mobility.
Source: Kia