Kia Motors Launches Bongo3 Electric Vehicle... 211km Driving Range on a Single Charge

by Woo Sooyoun

Published 06 Jan.2020 09:03(KST)

[Asia Economy Reporter Suyeon Woo] Kia Motors has launched the electric version of its compact truck Bongo3.

On the 6th, Kia Motors announced that it has launched the Bongo3 EV, Kia’s first eco-friendly electric truck featuring excellent economy and advanced safety and convenience features, and has begun full-scale sales.

The Bongo3 EV can travel 211 km on a single full charge, equipped with a 135 kW motor and a 58.8 kWh battery, providing excellent climbing ability. When charged with a 100 kW-class charger, the battery can be rapidly charged in 54 minutes.

The price is 40.5 million KRW for the GL trim and 42.7 million KRW for the GLS trim. With cargo electric vehicle subsidies (government subsidy of 18 million KRW + local government subsidies) and tax benefits at the registration stage (such as acquisition tax reduction up to 1.4 million KRW), it can be purchased at a reasonable price.

Additionally, benefits such as discounted parking fees at public parking lots and highway toll discounts are available, making it an attractive model for urban transportation service businesses, Kia Motors expects.

Kia Bongo EV

The Bongo3 EV is equipped with advanced technology that detects the load weight in real time and guides the drivable distance, and also features a regenerative braking system that charges the battery using energy generated during braking.

With the launch of the Bongo3 EV, Kia Motors introduced enhanced convenience features compared to the existing model. Electric power steering (R-MDPS), push-button start system, and electronic parking brake (EPB, including auto hold) are standard on all trims.

Advanced safety features have also been significantly strengthened. Buyers can choose features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, which warns the driver and assists braking if a collision risk with a vehicle or pedestrian ahead is detected; Lane Departure Warning Assist, which helps steer the wheel if the vehicle attempts to leave the lane without signaling; and Driver Attention Warning, which alerts the driver to take a break if attention levels drop.

Furthermore, the Bongo3 EV offers excellent loading convenience through a low loading height and a flat-floor option that makes the cargo bed floor even.

A Kia Motors official said, "With purchase subsidies, reasonable maintenance costs, improved economy compared to existing diesel vehicles, and quietness based on electrification, the Bongo3 EV is expected to lead the compact truck market."