Kia America Offers 500 Kilowatt-Hours of Free Fast Charging to Niro EV Buyers Through Electrify America Network
Kia America and Electrify America have entered into a noteworthy partnership to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) driving experience for the owners of the all-new second-generation 2023 Kia Niro EV. As part of this collaboration, Niro EV owners will receive 500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of free EV charging at any Electrify America station across the United States.
This generous charging credit could enable Niro EV owners to travel up to 1,950 miles, though actual mileage may vary based on driving style and external conditions. The initiative underscores both companies’ commitment to promoting sustainable mobility and making EV ownership more convenient and appealing.
“With the launch of the new Niro EV, we are expanding our collaboration with Electrify America to enable Niro EV drivers to experience all-electric road trips with the added benefit of quick recharging,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America.
The all-electric Niro EV, equipped with a 253-mile range, showcases Kia’s dedication to developing cutting-edge technology that aligns with a sustainable future. The EV is powered by a robust 64.8 kWh battery, paired with a potent 150 kW (201-horsepower) motor, guaranteeing high performance while maintaining zero emissions. An added advantage for EV owners is the vehicle’s standard DC fast-charging capability. When plugged into a DC fast charger, the Niro EV can restore its power from 10 to 80 percent in less than 45 minutes, boasting a peak charging power of 85 kW.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by cold weather on EV range, the vehicle also offers an optional heat pump and battery warmer to maintain optimal range under such conditions. This thoughtful provision ensures seamless driving experiences across varying climates, reinforcing the brand’s focus on customer-centric innovation.
“Kia and Electrify America understand the importance of DC fast charging for electric vehicle drivers,” said Giovanni Palazzo, president and chief executive officer of Electrify America. “We are thrilled to expand the collaboration and help provide Niro drivers with confident DC fast charging on our coast-to-coast network of 800 stations.”
Kia Niro EV owners can easily locate Electrify America charging stations through the vehicle’s in-car navigation system, eliminating the hassle of searching for compatible charging points. Furthermore, the car’s owners can gain access to the expansive DC charging network of Electrify America directly through their mobile app. To facilitate this, a one-time enrollment code for the Electrify America app is provided to the owners through the Kia owner’s portal or via the Kia Access App.
However, this access is granted only after the owner has activated and enrolled with Kia Connect, the brand’s advanced in-car telematics system. It’s important to note that owners have a three-year grace period from the date of purchase to utilize the complimentary charging credit, thereby offering significant cost savings and reinforcing the appeal of EV ownership. This measure further reflects Kia’s commitment to customer convenience and the promotion of sustainable transportation.
