Kia EV2 Passes Extreme Winter Test: Range & Charging Impress

Kia EV2 prototype successfully completed Norway's extreme winter test at -31°C, showing impressive range and fast charging

Kia has tested its upcoming EV2 electric SUV in one of the toughest winter conditions in Europe. The prototype recently completed the “El Prix” winter range test in Norway, where temperatures dropped to minus 31 degrees Celsius. Cold weather usually reduces battery efficiency and driving range in electric vehicles. The EV2 managed these conditions with stable performance.

Winter Range Performance

Kia tested a GT-Line version of the EV2 equipped with a 61 kWh battery and 19-inch wheels. During the test, the vehicle covered 310.6 kilometers in freezing conditions. The result stayed close to its official estimated range. The vehicle lost less than 25 percent of its rated range, which is considered a strong outcome for extreme cold weather.

Electric vehicles often experience higher range loss in sub-zero temperatures because batteries operate less efficiently. The EV2’s result suggests that Kia has developed an effective battery thermal management system.

Charging in Sub-Zero Temperatures

Charging speed also drops in very cold weather. In this test, the EV2 charged from 10 percent to 80 percent in 36 minutes. This is only six minutes slower than its official claim under normal conditions. The result indicates that the battery heating and charging system remained stable despite the extreme temperature.

Fast charging performance in cold climates is important because battery cells need proper temperature control before accepting high charging speeds.

Battery Options and Expected Range

Kia plans to offer the EV2 with two battery choices:

• 42.2 kWh LFP battery (standard range)

• 61.0 kWh NMC battery (long range)

The long-range version is expected to deliver around 440 kilometers on a full charge under standard testing conditions. Under normal weather, Kia claims the EV2 can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 30 minutes using fast charging.

Kia revealed the EV2 at the Brussels Motor Show. The model is expected to launch in Europe in 2026. The company has not confirmed an India launch yet.

Why This Test Important 

Cold-weather testing is important for electric vehicles because it exposes weaknesses in battery systems, charging efficiency and energy management. Many EV buyers remain concerned about winter range loss. By maintaining a high percentage of its rated range in minus 31 degrees Celsius, the EV2 addresses one of the key challenges faced by electric cars.

The test results suggest that Kia has focused on thermal control, battery protection and real-world usability. For markets with varied climates, strong cold-weather performance adds long-term reliability value.

Gaadijournal's Assessment

The Kia EV2’s winter test performance shows that compact electric SUVs can deliver stable range and charging even in severe cold. While final production specifications may vary, the early test data indicates solid engineering. Pricing, real-world efficiency and service support will ultimately determine its market success, but its cold-weather results strengthen its position in the growing compact EV segment.