Zap attack -- EV6 powers up!

Kia’s too-cool-for-sch00l EV6 electric car has hit showrooms.

EV6 is the first of seven dedicated Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to be built on the E-GMP Platform, with a future design and hi-tech details.

Not sure why they started at ‘6’ rather than ‘1’ — but it’s the first cab off the rank.

EV6 is powered purely by electric energy and brings a long-range, zero-emissions powertrain to the Large SUV segment of the market.

It’s available in two grades: the range focused, rear-wheel drive EV6 Air and better spec’d GT-Line, the latter with the option of rear- or all-wheel drive.

A performance oriented EV6 eGT is set to follow later in the year or early 2023.

Pricing starts fro $67,990 for the single motor, rear-wheel drive EV6 Air, with 168kW of power, 350Nm of torque and a range of 528km.

It sits on 19-inch wheels and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds.

The rear-drive, single motor GT-Line is priced from $74,990, scores 20-inch alloys and has a range of 504km.

Then there’s the dual motor, all-wheel drive, priced from $82,990, also with 20s, 239kW and 605Nm and a 0-100 km/h time of just 5.2 seconds.

The trade off is slightly reduced range at 484km.

Kia says a total of 500 units are earmarked for Australia this year, but the roll out will be staggered over the year.

There’s a chance, it says, that it might be able to get a few more, but only a few — due to its popularity and high demand for the car globally.

“The Kia EV6 is about to make its mark on the local electric vehicle offering in Australia and has already proven itself as the new halo for the Kia brand, attracting a remarkable level of interest leading up to its arrival,” Kia Australia’s Damien Meredith said.

“Based on this unprecedented consumer interest, we are confident we could find an Australian home for more EV6s than the 500 units allocated to our market in 2022.

“Like all models, we are in constant dialogue with headquarters about accessing more EV6 stock, all of which will be sold through the Kia dealer network and will arrive gradually throughout the year.”

Double the range for Ford Transit Custom

EV6 incorporates advanced ZF Sachs damper technology.

Kia is the first mainstream brand to use this technology following AMG and Maserati.

The SDC3 system is able to optimise damping forces dependent on frequency to offer both comfortable ride comfort and excellent body control at all times.

Meanwhile, comprehensive infotainment system consists of a dual 12.3-inch driver display and touchscreen navigation system, together with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Air features six speakers and a separate USB port for media connection, while GT-Line models feature Meridian premium audio with 14 speakers and active sound design (ASD).