By unveiling Ssangyong KEV2 Concept, the Korean car maker is killing two birds with one stone. They’re showing off their new electric drivetrain, and also preview next-gen Korando.
The KEV2 is an electric concept based on the current Korando featuring a 120kW electric motor, which provides a maximum driving range of 180km from the 35kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with a top speed of 150km/h. KEV2 tips the scales at 1750kg overall weight. The battery packs have been fitted into the lower part of the trunk space providing efficient interior space utilisation for better usability and comfort.
As for the charging time which is the Achilles’ hee for every EV, this Ssangyong 30 minutes using a higher-voltage rapid-charge outlet or around eight to ten hours via a conventional electricity supply.
Design-wise the KEV2 has a more aggressive design than the current Korando and features a neat design at front with LED lights, a number of cool vents, chrome detailing and big wheels. Inside the cabin the car boasts a tablet PC mounted in the centre console providing occupants with the ability to have up to the minute information and details at the touch of a screen.
The KEV2 is a new iteration of the 2011 Geneva show’s extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Ssangyong EREV has seating for five and is slightly smaller than Korando and weighing in at just 1300kg. It is part of Ssangyong’s dual EV strategy and uses an IC-EV plug-in hybrid configuration combining an 80kW electric motor with a 16kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a conventional ‘back-up’ engine to extend its range.It would have the same 150km/h maximum speed, but the batteries could be recharged in 15 minutes on quick-charge or around five hours using a conventional outlet providing a 60km range on electric power alone or 400km using the engine as well.
