Kia Syros EV may feature Hyundai’s K1 platform with localized EV powertrain. Explore leaked specs, expected range, competition, and pricing insights.
Kia Syros EV to Ride on Hyundai’s K1 Platform: What We Know So Far
Table of Contents
Kia Motors is gearing up to strengthen its electric vehicle portfolio in India, with the Kia Syros EV expected to join the lineup soon. While Kia remains tight-lipped about the launch date and specifications, industry sources and recent leaks suggest that the upcoming EV will share its DNA with Hyundai’s Inster EV, thanks to the use of the Hyundai-Kia K1 platform.
Though it’s unclear whether the Syros EV will debut before the Carens EV, excitement is building around what this compact electric SUV might offer, especially as it prepares to compete with India’s top-selling EVs.
Kia Syros EV to Inherit Hyundai’s K1 EV Architecture
According to reports first circulated by Korean auto forums and industry insiders, the Syros EV is expected to be built on the Hyundai-Kia K1 platform, the same modular architecture that underpins the Hyundai Inster EV sold globally.
The K1 platform has been specially optimized for compact electric vehicles, supporting front-wheel drive layouts and scalable battery packs. Its use in the Syros EV suggests Kia is aiming for a budget-friendly yet performance-oriented EV for urban and intercity use.
Battery & Range: What to Expect?
If the Syros EV mirrors the Hyundai Inster’s mechanical configuration, we can expect two battery options:
- 42 kWh battery (expected range: ~300 km)
- 49 kWh battery (expected range: ~355 km)
This puts the Syros EV in the same league as the Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and Tata Punch EV in terms of range and daily usability.
According to InsideEVs, the Hyundai Inster EV achieves 355 km range on a single charge with the 49 kWh battery under WLTP testing, which gives us a strong clue about what the Syros EV might deliver.
Localized EV Powertrain for Cost Efficiency
To keep pricing competitive, Kia is reportedly working on localizing the EV powertrain. This means crucial EV components, such as battery packs and electric motors, might be assembled or manufactured in India. Such localization not only reduces costs but could also help Kia benefit from FAME-II subsidies and state EV incentives, further bringing down the final price for consumers.
Will It Launch Before Carens EV?
The launch timeline remains uncertain. Insiders speculate that either the Syros EV or Carens EV will launch first, depending on Kia’s internal development and production readiness. Regardless of the launch order, the Syros EV is expected to target the compact electric SUV market, which is currently seeing fast growth in India.
India’s EV market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 44% between 2024 and 2030, according to a report by NITI Aayog and Rocky Mountain Institute.
Source: NITI Aayog EV Report
Features: EV Trim Expected to Mirror ICE Syros
Kia is expected to carry forward the premium interior and feature spread from the ICE version of Syros, including:
- 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Digital instrument cluster
- Six airbags (expected in top variants)
- ADAS features (likely in higher trims)
- Regenerative braking and driving modes for the EV
Some EV-specific additions may include:
- Remote charging control
- EV range display with eco-driving analysis
- Mobile-connected climate control (via Kia Connect)
ICE Variant Pricing for Comparison
Here’s a look at the current ICE Syros pricing (ex-showroom):
| Variant | Petrol MT | Petrol AT | Diesel MT | Diesel AT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HTK | ₹9 lakh | – | – | – |
| HTK(O) | ₹10 lakh | – | ₹11 lakh | – |
| HTK+ | ₹11.5 lakh | ₹12.8 lakh | ₹12.5 lakh | – |
| HTX | ₹13.3 lakh | ₹14.6 lakh | ₹14.3 lakh | – |
| HTX+ | – | ₹16 lakh | – | ₹17 lakh |
| HTX+(O) | – | ₹16.8 lakh | – | ₹17.8 lakh |
The EV variant is expected to be priced competitively, likely starting from ₹12 lakh for the base model and going up to ₹16–17 lakh for higher trims with longer range batteries.
A Promising EV Contender in the Making
While official confirmation is still awaited, the Kia Syros EV appears poised to offer a compelling package for Indian EV buyers. With Hyundai’s proven K1 platform, localized components, and practical range, it could become a strong alternative to Tata’s electric SUVs.
Also read: Realme A4 5G: A Budget 5G Powerhouse for the Masses