Kia is redefining electric vehicle (EV) endurance standards with the upcoming EV4, its all-electric compact model designed for long-distance reliability and long-term ownership confidence. In a series of rigorous tests simulating extreme real-world conditions, the EV4 demonstrated good battery durability, thermal efficiency, and structural robustness.
Central to the EV4’s resilience is Kia’s fourth-generation battery system. Engineered with cutting-edge thermal management and optimised coolant flow across all cells, the system ensures battery temperatures remain stable even under heavy stress, such as repeated hypercharging and high-speed track laps. These advancements directly contribute to extended battery life and consistent performance over time.
In one of its headline achievements, the EV4 successfully completed a 10,000km endurance run at the Nrburgring, operating at 90–95% of its peak output. During the test, the vehicle underwent repeated fast-charging cycles between laps, simulating extreme usage conditions. Yet, the battery retained a remarkable 95% State of Health (SoH) following the test.
Further bolstering its credentials, the EV4 underwent a 110,000km accelerated durability test on European public roads. Engineers confirmed the battery’s long-term efficiency remained impressively intact after the extensive evaluation.
“To provide our customers a reliable, everyday EV, we had to validate the EV4’s durability both in real-world and extreme environments,” said Stephan Hoferer, Manager of Durability Development at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre. “From icy roads to racetracks, we’re confident the EV4 will deliver dependable performance well beyond everyday needs.”
The EV4’s regenerative braking system also plays a key role in efficiency. It reduces strain on the battery while recapturing up to 25% of energy during deceleration, enhancing range and contributing to longer battery lifespan.
Kia guarantees that the EV4 will retain at least 70% of its battery capacity after 160,000 kilometres or eight years of regular use, underscoring its commitment to delivering dependable, high-endurance EVs to a wider customer base.
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