Kia Canada - greencars.overview

Introduction

Kia Canada wants to put Electric Vehicles on the map by educating drivers on the real-life benefits and vehicle options available to maximize their driving experiences. But this is a completely new world for many Canadians – one filled with confusing acronyms and overwhelming stats. Here, we welcome you to the Kia EV World – a go-to place for all EV information.

EV Power

What’s the Difference between HEV, PHEV and EV?

Not all EVs are created equal and Kia offers three different types to meet the diverse needs of Canadian drivers. While all benefit the environment, the key difference involves the powertrain – the main components that generate power and transfer it to the wheels. This changes how the vehicle’s internal battery is charged.

The three options:

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

HEV stands for hybrid electric vehicle. As the name indicates, this is a combination of an electric vehicle and a traditional, gasoline-powered vehicle. The components of an HEV include an electric motor, internal combustion engine (ICE, also known as a gasoline engine) and a battery. The HEV derives energy in two ways:

1) through regenerative braking, where the electric motor acts as a generator to save and store the energy produced when a vehicle is slowed down; and

2) fossil fuels that run the secondary gasoline engine.

Benefits: HEVs have a better return on fuel during city driving and while in stop-and-go traffic, in comparison to a standard gasoline or diesel vehicle.

Charging/Fueling: HEVs cannot be plugged into an electricity source and are fueled at standard gas stations.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

PHEV stands for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. These are Hybrid Vehicles (they contain both an electric and gasoline powered engines), with the ability to charge the battery by plugging them in.

Benefits: In a Kia PHEV, you have the option of full EV mode, for zero emission driving, or HEV, where the gasoline engine is the main source of power for longer range needs, supplemented by the battery and electric motor.

Charging/Fueling: The electric motor in a PHEV can obtain power from regenerative braking (see HEV), regular electrical outlets, or from an electric vehicle charging station. The ICE requires gasoline.

Battery Electric Vehicle (EV)

BEV stands for battery electric vehicle, also known simply as an electric vehicle (EV). EVs run on 100% battery power.

Benefits: An EV does not have an internal combustion (gasoline) engine, meaning it doesn’t produce tailpipe emissions. No ICE means lower maintenance costs in comparison to traditional vehicles.

Charging/Fueling: This type of vehicle derives all its power from plugging into a power source. With charging stations located across the country, your EV can be “fast charged,” keeping your travel capabilities limitless.

EV Charging

There are basically three different options for charging your EV or PHEV:

* Level 1, which uses a regular 110 Volt household outlet;

* Level 2, which uses a 240 Volt outlet, which you can have installed at home or find in public locations; and

* Level 3, which can be found in key public charging stations across Canada.

The main difference is the speed at which each level charges the battery. Here are the details:

Level 1

Level 1 charging adds about 5 – 9 kms of driving range per hour of charging time.

Plug-in electric vehicle batteries can be fully charged using Level 1 chargers, which are compatible with any standard 120V outlet. This is the most common method for at-home charging

Level 2

Level 2 charging adds about 25 – 40 kms of range per hour of charging time.

This level is ideal for drivers who travel more than 80 km/day and need to replenish their range overnight. A 240V (Level 2) outlet (like a stove or dryer outlet) can be installed in a garage or outdoors and enables faster charge times. This requires a compatible charger: 16A and 32A chargers are the two most common Level 2 chargers. However, there is a wide range of chargers available, with varying charge times. Level 2 chargers can also be found in thousands of public locations across Canada, such as shopping malls, restaurants, parking garages and private businesses. Visit ChargeHub to learn more.

Level 3

Also known as DC fast charging, Level 3 charging can add 300+ kms of range in about 1 hr of charging time.

For drivers going long distances, Level 3 chargers can be used to charge vehicles quicker. Level 3 chargers are usually found in higher traffic public areas and use a 400V system. The most common Level 3 chargers are 50A and 100A, but there are alternative options with a wide range of amperages. Visit ChargeHub to learn more.

Things to think about
When choosing an EV charger, here are some pointers to help you make the right choice:
- A shorter cord length is cheaper and can be used for parking spaces near chargers while a longer charger allows for more flexibility in parking distance.
- Make compatible Level 2 chargers portable by connecting them to a wall rather than hardwiring them, helping them remain mobile for use while travelling.
- Some charging stations are smart, meaning they can connect to WIFI allowing the owner to monitor charging levels and other stats. Not every electric vehicle is compatible with this feature.
- There are a variety of chargers in the market; some are for more rugged outdoor use while others, are more suited for use inside your garage.
Charger installation
When you’re ready for a faster Level 2 charger, have one installed in the comfort and convenience of your home. We have provided some resources to help with the set-up of a home charger as well as some licensed electricians in your region for installation peace of mind.
Visit to learn more

Range Calculator

Wherever life takes you, Kia Electric Vehicles can take you there with confidence. Try our intuitive Range Calculator to see just how far you can go on one charge. It is important to remember that your range depends on various factors, including the outside temperature, your driving speed and whether you’re using certain features, like heated seats or the HVAC system. Simply enter your postal code, select a vehicle and explore!

Postal Code *
Select vehicle *
Go

* Please ensure you have entered a correct postal code and have selected a vehicle.

Electric
Gas
Combined

*Calculated range does not consider various terrains, routes or other external factors. Actual travel distance may vary.

Frequently asked questions

Why are EVs gaining popularity?
When you drive an electric vehicle, you not only save on gas, you give back to the planet with every kilometre. EVs reduce exhaust emissions that can lead to harmful air pollution, and offer benefits that can save Canadians money over time.
How do I know an EV is for me?
Kia’s EVs provide a solution for consumers who want to engage in green consumerism, while also acheiving the safety and reliability they require to go about their lives with confidence. Once you have reviewed Kia’s GreenCars website, we recommend you visit your nearest Kia Dealer to see the cars up close and ask any additional questions. Find a dealer near you here
What is the range of an EV?
Many EVs can travel more than 350km on a single charge. Since 68% of Canadian car owners drive less than 50km on an average day,* a Kia EV will address the majority of day-to-day needs. For the odd time when a longer range is needed, plug-in stations are available across Canada. Or for ongoing long range needs, HEV or PHEV options provide the benefits of EVs, with the back-up of gasoline engines.
How easy is it to find a charging station in Canada?
Surprisingly, charging is completed at home 71% of the time.** However, the number of public charging stations is growing steadily across Canada. ChargeHub says there are more than 14,000 public charging ports available across Canada, which is a 50% increase over last year.
How long does it take to charge an EV?
The time required to charge an EV depends on how you are charging it. At a fast charging station, it can take as little as 60 minutes to charge an average EV battery up to 80%. Home charging with a Level 1 or 2 charger usually allows you to completely charge your battery overnight.
EVs cost more than gas-powered vehicles. Is the switch to electric worth the price increase?
Every vehicle purchase comes with its own financial commitment. The switch from a gasoline-powered vehicle to an EV offers many benefits that can help Canadians save money throughout the year. Calculate your potential savings here. In addition, the Canadian government and some provinces offer sales incentives of up to $5,000, and all Kia electric vehicles qualify for these incentives. Learn more here:
Government of Canada’s EV website
Quebec Government’s EV website
British Columbia Government’s EV website
What’s the difference between an HEV, PHEV and EV?
Basicaly, these are the three common types of Electric Vehicles. Kia offers all of these types and you can learn more here.
* HEV stands for Hybrid Electric Vehicle and these models have both electric and gasoline engines. The electric engines in these models can only be charged through the normal operation of the vehicle.
* PHEV is a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle and these models also offer two engines, but owners can charge the battery by plugging into a power source.
* EV (or BEV) is an Electric Vehicle that uses an electric battery exclusively in the operation of the vehicle. These models are charged by plugging into a power outlet.
How do EVs perform in cold, winter weather?
EVs are safe to drive and can perform in all four seasons.
Kia’s industry-leading heat pump techology maximizes the distance that Kia EVs can travel on a single charge by recycling waste heat to warm the vehicle cabin. This system improves overall energy efficiency and battery life and offers a more consistent range in cold temperatures, where other EV models start to see a significant decline.

EV Society EV Charging Etiquette

Is it ok to park my EV in an EV charging space?
Only occupy a charging spot while your car is being charged. Please unplug and move your car once you have adequate range to comfortably reach your destination.
If you drive a gas or diesel Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle, please do not park in a spot designated for an EV no matter how crowded the parking lot is, and no matter how infrequently the charging location is used. EV drivers rely on these stations to make it to their next destination.
What if someone is parked but not charging in an EV parking space?
If the charging spot you counted on using is occupied by an ICE vehicle (ICE’d) or by another EV not plugged in, avoid the temptation to get nasty and simply leave a polite note on the windshield explaining your reliance on these stations.
To Charge, or not to Charge?
Most regular travel can be accomplished through overnight home charging. Remember that electricity at free charging stations are privately funded and provided as a courtesy to EV drivers who might need the charge to safely complete their travels. Unless you need a charge to reach your destination, please leave the spot free for another EV driver who needs the charge to complete their trip. Please don’t charge if you don’t need a charge.
Is it okay to ask another EV driver for a charge?
If a charging spot is being used, it’s OK to park in an adjacent spot and leave a note with your name and cell number asking the owner to plug your car in after their session is complete.
Is it ok to unplug another EV?
Never unplug another EV or PHEV unless it has clearly finished charging, or and/or you’ve received permission from the owner. If you unplug another car once it has fully charged, leave a note with your name and cell number explaining why it was unplugged.
An owner of an EV does NOT have the right to unplug a PHEV, just because that car has a back-up gas engine. However, if asked, PHEV drivers should always concede their spot to EV drivers who might not be able to safely reach their next destination.
How else can I be respectful to others when using a charging station?
Before you leave to shop or dine at a local merchant, place a note on your dashboard with your name and cell number so that other EV drivers can reach you in the event that they urgently need a charge. It’s helpful to indicate when you expect to be back and whether it is OK to unplug your car before it’s fully charged.
As you begin charging, please do “check in” on the mobile PlugShare app to let others know that the station is in use and also leave feedback for future users. If there is a problem with a charging station, please first contact the station owner before leaving a negative review.
Route the cord from the station to your car so it lays flat on the ground and is not a trip-hazard. Before you leave, please wind the cord neatly on its holder.
How Does Charging Work? What are the different types of charging?
Charging is one of the main items prospective EV owners have questions about. You’ll find that it is actually very simple. For the basics on EV charging, read this

Click for legal

To achieve up to 80 percent charge from empty in as little as 54 minutes a level 3 DC fast charger (100Kw) is required to be used with the vehicle’s fast charging port. The time indicated may vary depending on charging conditions and vehicle model.

Recharge times are based on a 0% state of charge (SOC).

* From September 23-24, 2020 Angus Reid conducted an omnibus survey among 1,500 Canadians aged 18+. The margin of error –which measures sampling variability – is +/- 2.52% 19 times out of 20.

** Why Dealers Need to Watch New EV Charging Sites – Canadian Auto Dealer