2025 Kia EV6 PE Range Revolution: New Battery Options

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2025 Kia EV6 PE Range Revolution: New Battery Options

Posted on January 10, 2025

The automotive world is buzzing with excitement about the Kia EV6 PE (Performance Edition). This latest iteration of the popular electric crossover brings significant upgrades to its battery technology, promising enhanced range and performance. 

The Evolution of EV6 Battery Technology

Previous Generation Battery Specs

Before we dive into the new offerings, let’s briefly recap the battery specifications of the previous EV6 model:

• Standard Range Battery: 58 kWh
• Long Range Battery: 77.4 kWh (usable capacity)
• Estimated Range (Long Range RWD): Up to 499 km

These figures set a solid benchmark for the EV6, but Kia has pushed the envelope even further with the new model.

2025 EV6 PE: A Leap Forward

The Kia EV6 PE introduces two new battery options that promise to extend range and boost performance:

1. Standard Battery: 63.0 kWh
2. Long Range Battery: 84.0 kWh

This upgrade significantly increases energy storage capacity, with the standard battery increasing by 8.6% and the long-range option expanding by 8.5%.

Diving Deep into the New Battery Options

Standard Battery: 63.0 kWh

The new standard battery option for the EV6 PE is a 63.0 kWh pack, up from the previous 58 kWh. This increase might seem modest, but it brings several advantages:

• Improved Range: While official figures are pending, we can expect a range increase of approximately 8-10% over the previous standard battery model.
• Performance Boost: The larger capacity allows for a slight increase in power output, with the rear motor now producing 167 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
• Flexibility for Urban Drivers: The extra capacity provides more flexibility for daily commuters and urban dwellers who may not need the extended range of the larger battery.

Long Range Battery: 84.0 kWh

The star of the show is undoubtedly the new 84.0 kWh long-range battery. This substantial upgrade brings several exciting improvements:

• Extended Range: Kia targets an impressive all-electric range of up to 499 km for RWD configurations of the Light LR, Wind, and GT-Line trims.
• Performance Enhancements:
  • RWD models: 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque
  • AWD models: 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque
  • GT trim: A whopping 601 hp and 545 lb-ft of torque (up to 641 hp in GT mode)
• Improved Efficiency: The increased capacity doesn’t come at the cost of added weight, suggesting battery chemistry and packaging advancements.

The Technology Behind the Upgrade

Energy Density Improvements

The new batteries in the EV6 PE  benefit from advancements in cell design and chemistry:

• New Cell Chemistry: Possibly incorporating higher nickel content in the cathode or silicon-based anodes.
• Improved Cell Design: More efficient packaging of active materials within each cell.
• Enhanced Thermal Management: Better temperature control allows more aggressive use of the battery’s capacity.

Battery Management System (BMS) Upgrades

Alongside the physical battery improvements, Kia has likely made significant strides in its battery management system:

• More Accurate State of Charge (SoC) Estimation: Allowing for better utilization of the battery’s full capacity.
• Advanced Thermal Management: Ensuring optimal battery temperature for improved performance and longevity.
• Predictive Analytics: Using AI to optimize charging and discharging based on driving patterns and conditions.

Impact on Performance and Driving Experience

Acceleration and Top Speed

The increased battery capacity translates directly to improved performance metrics:

• 0-100 km/h Acceleration:
  • RWD models: Estimated 7.3 seconds (down from 7.5 seconds)
  • AWD models: Around 5.2 seconds (previously 5.4 seconds)
  • GT trim: An astonishing 3.4 seconds (improved from 3.5 seconds)
• Top Speed:
  • Standard models: Electronically limited to 185 km/h
  • GT trim: Up to 260 km/h

Driving Modes and Power Delivery

The EV6 PE offers a range of driving modes that take full advantage of the new battery capabilities:

• Eco Mode: Optimized for maximum range, limiting power output and adjusting regenerative braking.
• Normal Mode: Balanced setting for everyday driving.
• Sport Mode: Increased responsiveness and power output for a more engaging drive.
• GT Mode (GT trim only): Unleashes the full 641 hp for maximum performance.

Range and Efficiency

While the official Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) ratings are pending, we can make some educated estimates based on the battery capacity increase:

• Standard Battery (63.0 kWh):
  • Estimated range: 400-425 km (RWD)
  • Energy consumption: Approximately 16-17 kWh/100 km
• Long Range Battery (84.0 kWh):
  • Estimated range: 490-510 km (RWD)
  • Energy consumption: Approximately 17-18 kWh/100 km

These figures represent a significant improvement over the previous generation, especially considering the performance enhancements.

Charging Capabilities

DC Fast Charging

The EV6 PE retains its class-leading 800V ultra-fast charging architecture:

• Charging Speed: 10-80% in just 18 minutes (on a 350 kW DC fast charger)
• Peak Charging Rate: Up to 240 kW (depending on conditions)

AC Charging

For home and destination charging, the EV6 PE comes with an 11 kW onboard charger:

• Level 2 (240V) Charging Time (0-100%):
  • 63.0 kWh battery: Approximately 6 hours
  • 84.0 kWh battery: Around 8 hours

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Function

The EV6 PE V2L capability has been enhanced, offering up to 12 kW output. This allows the vehicle to power external devices or even charge another EV in emergency situations.

Battery Longevity and Warranty

Kia continues to demonstrate confidence in its battery technology with a comprehensive warranty package:

• Battery Warranty: 8 years or 160,000 km (whichever comes first)
• Capacity Guarantee: Kia ensures the battery will retain at least 70% of its original capacity throughout the warranty period.

To maintain battery health, Kia recommends:

1. Avoiding frequent use of DC fast charging
2. Keeping the battery charge level between 20% and 80% for daily use
3. Utilizing the EV6 PE scheduled charging feature to minimize battery stress

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The increased energy density of the new batteries not only improves performance but also contributes to sustainability efforts:

• Reduced Raw Material Usage: More energy storage per unit of battery materials
• Improved Manufacturing Efficiency: Potentially lower carbon footprint in production
• Extended Vehicle Lifespan: Higher capacity batteries may reduce the need for premature battery replacements

Kia has also committed to using sustainably sourced and recycled materials in battery production, aligning with global efforts to create a more circular economy in the EV industry.

2025 Kia EV6 PE: A Powerful Step Forward

The new battery options for the Kia EV6 PE represent a significant leap forward in electric vehicle technology. By increasing energy density and overall capacity, Kia has addressed the two most critical factors for EV adoption: range and performance.

The standard 63.0 kWh battery provides an excellent option for urban dwellers and those with shorter commutes, offering improved range without unnecessary cost. Meanwhile, the 84.0 kWh long-range battery pushes the EV6 PE into premium territory, with range and performance figures that compete with luxury EV brands.

As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve rapidly, the Kia EV6 PE, with its new battery options, stands as a testament to the potential of EV technology. It offers a compelling package that combines practicality, performance, and cutting-edge technology, making it a strong contender for Canadian consumers looking to switch to electric mobility.

Learn more about 2025 Kia EV6