Kia Confirms Electric Future for Picanto and Stinger Successor

Kia is gearing up to electrify its most affordable car, the Picanto, as well as introduce an electric successor to its flagship Stinger sports car. By 2027, Kia plans to offer a full range of electric vehicles, from city-sized models to high-performance sports cars, solidifying its commitment to an all-electric future. Blogs

Electric Picanto: Australia's Cheapest New Car Goes Electric

Kia’s president, Ho-sung Song, recently confirmed that the brand is developing a city-sized electric vehicle that could either replace or complement the current petrol-powered Picanto, Australia's most affordable new car. This move would bring a compact, budget-friendly electric vehicle to the market, targeting a price point starting at approximately €30,000 ($49,500 AUD).

However, Kia is looking to drive prices even lower, with hopes of eventually offering EVs in the sub-€25,000 ($41,200 AUD) range, and potentially even as low as €20,000 ($33,000 AUD), though these lower price targets are unlikely to be achieved before 2027.

This new electric vehicle would follow Kia's naming convention, likely being called the EV1, as the company has trademarked EV1 through EV9 for its electric lineup. The EV1 would compete in the micro-car segment and could be the smallest and most affordable electric car available in Australia, continuing the Picanto’s dominance in the 'micro' car segment, where it currently holds over 90% market share.

Kia's Growing Electric Lineup

Kia is rapidly expanding its electric vehicle offerings. By 2025, the EV3 small SUV is expected to hit Australian showrooms, followed by the EV5 medium SUV, which is set to compete with the Tesla Model Y at a price below $60,000. The EV2 electric hatchback is also scheduled for release in 2026, offering more affordable options in Kia’s growing electric portfolio.

Kia's push into electrics extends to high-performance variants, with every dedicated electric vehicle set to feature a GT version, including the future EV1.

The Electric Stinger Successor: A New Performance Halo

In addition to the city car, Kia is also "studying" an electric follow-up to its beloved Stinger sports sedan, which was discontinued in Australia in January 2024. The potential successor could use Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), shared by models like the EV6 and EV9, offering high-powered dual-motor all-wheel drive setups capable of delivering up to 450kW.

While the specifics are still under wraps, this new performance model could arrive as early as 2026 and act as the brand’s halo car, following in the Stinger’s footsteps as a driver-focused, rear-wheel-drive sports car. Kia has also filed trademarks to protect the Stinger name until 2033, hinting at a possible reuse for this electric sports sedan.

Kia's EV Future Looks Bright

With the upcoming electrification of the Picanto and the potential for a new electric Stinger, Kia is positioning itself to offer a wide range of electric vehicles to suit various needs and budgets. Whether it’s affordable city cars or high-performance sports sedans, Kia is clearly committed to leading the electric revolution in Australia. As we look ahead to 2027, Kia’s expanding electric lineup is set to offer something for every driver.