The future has arrived in the new Kia Soul EV. It provides comforts and perks of the latest SUVs, for a fraction of the price. It has a practical driving range and a bold look that build on the unique dimensions and style of Kia Soul.

I was pleasantly surprised when driving the new 2017 Kia Soul EV. It checks that many boxes conscientious consumers normally look for in an electric vehicle. A non- EV like appearance? Check.  Superfast charging? Check. Hassle free charging? Check. Spacious? Check. Leading Driving Range in one go? Check. Pricing? Let’s just give that a three quarters check

At first glance, you can hardly distinguish between Kia Soul and Kia Soul EV. The only difference is that the EV lacks is a gas input, and instead has a hidden electric input on the front grill. Furthermore, it has slightly different lights and has some aerodynamic rims and low rolling resistance wheels. But besides those little differences and obviously the small ‘Eco Electric’ label on the car, it is pretty hard to tell it is an EV.

The SUV like platform in addition to the synthetic leather finishing seats will make you feel as if you are riding an SUV. The most striking features about the interior, besides the synthetic leather seats, that will appeal will are: cooled/heated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, mood lights, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera, tinted rear glass, auto-folding side view mirrors, charge status indicator, panoramic sun roof, leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio controls, an eight-inch multimedia interface with voice-activated navigation, Bluetooth, and flex steer system offering three steering modes to fit your mood, be it Normal, Comfort and Sport.

The Soul EV is a CUV, with spacious interiors and plenty of leg room. For a guy with a height of 5’ 9”, I could easily fit inside this vehicle with plenty of space remaining. So, space is something you don’t have to worry about at all.

The 109 HP motor under the front hood is powered by 27 kWh of lithium-ion polymer batteries. You can enjoy more power for a longer time with up to 212km on full charge. The highly energy-dense batteries are covered by a 7-year warranty and are located right under the floor to give you more cargo space, thereby, making long journeys with your friends and family even more enjoyable and comfortable.

The Soul EV designers also made safety a top priority. Firstly, a 6-airbag system offers protection for all occupants and can be effective at reducing injuries from certain collisions. In addition, smart active safety systems, such as Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and the Brake Assist System (BAS), work automatically by sensing and adapting to your driving conditions (the terrains and landscape of Nepal). Furthermore, the Soul EV’s Tire-Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) continuously monitors the inflation pressure in all four tires and warns you when the pressure drops below a specified range.

At the wheel, you command exceptional output and torque. The quick Soul EV boasts class leading 0-100 kph acceleration in less than 11sec and a top speed of 145kph. Agile handling, a low center of gravity and reduced road noise ensures a stable and composed drive. Passengers will appreciate the comfort, while the drivers will enjoy a new sense of responsiveness. Additionally, it’s Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS), which generates fine-tuned warning sound, help pedestrians nearby hear you coming. The solar control windshield and front-door windows provide a cooler cabin meaning less A/C used, more energy saved and more driving range. The Soul EV’s regenerative braking system recovers kinetic energy whenever you go downhill. That energy helps recharge your battery so that you can stretch your driving distance. Also, the available heat pump system captures unused heat from the car’s electronics to help save energy thus appealing to your green side.

Coming down to recharging its batteries, you will be happy to know that this Soul EV can be charged anywhere you like. The same 120 volt outlet which you use to charge your mobile phones can be used. All you have to do is just plug your Soul EV straight into the wall with the included outlet charger. Similarly, with the use of the mainstream and high power 240 Volt chargers it will take as little as 8 hours to reach a full charge. Moreover, the Soul EV’s Direct Current (DC) Fast Charge can get you from a completely empty battery to a nearly fully charge in about 30 minutes or less. And unlike some of the competition, DC Fast Charge is standard on every Soul EV.

The Soul EV is available in two varients: one with sun roof is priced at NRs. 58,00,000, and the without sun roof is priced at NRs. 56,00,000.  Even though the prices at first look slightly on the higher side, but it will certainly be worth an investment in the long run. With zero road tax levied, no fuel required and very low maintenance cost, this new Soul EV provide the comforts and perks of the latest SUVs for a fraction of the price. It is especially suited city commuters, driving this vehicle will certainly be a delight for everyone.