Kia has introduced the new e-Soul Cargo in
the Netherlands. Designed to act as a “bridge” until a new generation of
electric commercial vehicles arrives, the e-Soul Cargo is lightly modified
version of the e-Soul which has been designed to transport small and
medium-sized packages.
As part of the conversion, the rear seats
have been removed to allow for additional storage space. The model has also
been outfitted with a metal load floor that features six tie-down anchors and a
hatch that provides easy access to the charging cable which is hidden beneath
the floor. The model also has a metal rack that separates the passenger
compartment from the cargo area.
Since the e-Soul Cargo is based on the
e-Soul Executive Line, the model comes nicely equipped for a delivery van.
Drivers will find heated and ventilated leather seats, a heated steering wheel
and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The model also has adaptive cruise
control and a 10.25-inch infotainment system with TomTom Live Services as well
as Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility.
Power is provided by a 64 kWh battery
which feeds an electric motor that develops 201 hp and 395 Nm of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately 7.9 seconds and travel up to 452 km on a single charge.
The Kia e-Soul Cargo appears to be
exclusive to the Netherlands – at least at this point – and it starts at
€ 39,077. However, customers can also purchase a €2 ,680 conversion kit for the
standard model. Either way, Kia says the e-Soul Cargo can “easily be converted
back to a passenger car.”
