Episode 51 - 2019 Kia Niro EV Review

[@GreatCreative]

Great review. After driving my Niro EV for over 2 months, I can say you've touched on all the key points, and I agree with your assessment. You and I discussed this at length a few times, but after driving the Leaf, Bolt, Kona and Niro, this was the best choice for my lifestyle. I love the simplicity of the car. I'm glad I ordered it back in October 2018. One quirk - I received a free Bosch charger with the car and when I want to end the charge, I have to cancel the charge with the app. The "stop" button on the Bosch charger does not properly communicate with the car. However, with the BC Hydro/Greenlots chargers, I find it regularly updates the charge status via the app. So you can plug in the car, go get a coffee and know the status and time remaining on your charge. Helps you avoid being the person who plugged in and then left the car too long while others were waiting. One more thing - I took the car on a couple 200+km trips and it was great. And I recently drove it over the Okanagan Connector (1728M) and the Coquihalla Highway (1244M) on a trip to the Sunshine Coast - a trip of about 450km each way - and the car was fantastic. It did suck the energy back when climbing over those mountain passes, but the level 3 regen gave a good bit back on each descent. If you can get one for a test, I'd recommend it for your short list - especially if a hatch better fits your lifestyle. And for those who carry bikes around - it took a 2" receiver with no visible modification.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Albert, appreciate you watching and for the comments. Yes you've had one for a bit now and glad to read your assessment is still high! Totally agree, it's really a sleeper hit - if Kia can just build enough.

[@jmzorko]

I can't think of any negative comments wrt your show, Kenneth. Your advocacy for EVs resonates strongly with me, and i'm always trying to incentivize my friends into watching your show to get an idea of the range of EVs out there. Please keep up the good work!

[@EVRevolution]

Wow JMZ, that is one of the nicest comments I've every had! I really appreciate it and will do my best to continue my advocacy for EVs. It's good to know and understand that not every one can fit an EV into their lives today, but in the future when we have much more choice, cost-parity and solid supporting infrastructures, it will be no excuse time to get an EV. Thanks for watching!

[@ronsterg3017]

Another terrific video. As a fellow Ontarian (Mississauga) I am thrilled to see you reviewing what we have locally! Just keep it up! ... Great car, when I bough my leaf plus I had tried to look at this one. But ... their was none in the GTA I could find to test. To get one would be ordering ... and it would be a long wait. This might be the most fantastical EV of the year, but if you cannot buy it then it really does not matter. Further the dealers do not want to sell it, I was amazed at the dealers (Kia and Nissan) who do not and will not stock EV. I truly believe that consumers would buy this and others EVs, but if they are not in the dealerships and are not advertised this EV segment will continue to be a tougher sell. Well done on the video!

[@JohnRoss1]

Only certain Kia dealers applied to be qualified to sell Soul or Kia EV The Brantford Kia dealership owner mentioned in a youtube video that it was $15K upfront plus the expense of training staff. (Not sure if they need that to sell the hybrid models)BTW still waiting for my Niro EV order..

[@ronsterg3017]

@@JohnRoss1 Thank John ... think it is nuts and indicative of how the dealers view the North American market. The dealers will not apply as they do get the ongoing money for service that they would get otherwise. Think this is sad for the Canadian market and really gives Tesla a structural advantage.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Ronster, appreciate you watching and great to see another local following my show! Yes agreed, the dealers really need to be on top of this and you are correct in your summary. Hope to see you out at a local EV event!

[@markcornwall8132]

Good review Ken and having had the Kona EV agree the size/height/range and a hatchback is spot on for most. I do wish Kia and Hyundai advertised the charging speed accurately though. All the advertising doesnt mention the real charge rate. They say things like 'up to 100kw' or it takes so many minutes 'On a 100kw charger' which although true isnt actually 100kw peak rate. The Kona/Niro tops out at around 70+ kws only. Apart from that they are both very good. Look forward to the next show Ken, thankyou.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Mark for watching and for your feedback. Appreciate it and the comments of course! Yes, marketing will be marketing and really all of the auto manufacturers do it, for EVs and ICEVs too. For the general masses that these kind of EVs will more than cover their daily needs, it's really a moot point. For the fewer that want to do longer distances, its great that there are many real life reviews out there that will show actual charging speeds, depending on the type of charger. Still, 70+kWs is pretty good.

[@SoWErA]

76 or was it 77kW is max

[@EVRevolution]

Ok, so I added to the confusion of DC Fast Charging for this vehicle in my review here. Seems I am not alone, as at the time of this review, we were provided info from Kia which was vague. Many journalists have reported that they don't like how Kia describes the Niro EV's DC fast charge capabilities.That's led to some confusion, and many journalists believed (and reported) that the Niro EV was capable of charging at 100kW. The reason for the confusion is that Kia released press materials that list the Niro EV's charging time to 80% as "1 hour @ 100 kW EVSE". That's technically correct, but introducing the "100 kW" definitely caused many in the industry to believe the Niro EV could charge at 100 kW. The fact is, the Niro EV is only capable of reaching about 77 kW on a DC fast charge station, and even then it cannot maintain that rate for long. It peaks at 77kW for a short time, then ramps down to about 39kW or so. Again, I provided times to charge from x% to y%, and my typo in the lower-thirds pop up was evident. As you can see at that 27:00 minute mark when I do a DC Fast Charge, I do say 100kW because again, that was basically the info provided to me at the time of filming this review. It's plain to see I only pulled 55% ish of charge rate in my try at a 200kW Petro Canada Charger. Back in 2019, 50kW was still the most popular rate as the higher DC Fast Chargers were only starting to roll out, and most OEMs were starting to push 100-125kW capabilities. Of course now, in March of 2023, table stakes are higher at about 125kw-150kW with 300 miles/480 kms, being the norm. Hope this clears the issue.

[@EVRevolution]

On another note, I will be reviewing the refreshed 2023 Kia Niro EV within the next couple of weeks and will have updated info on this and the charging pulls. I may try to do a DCFC with it to see what I can get.

[@dr-k1667]

I enjoyed your review and hope Kia can increase production, because demand is there.

[@mavismoi1]

I think I love this car. Go EV!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks, I hope they can too!

[@mcamodell]

Kia will only produce and sell exactly the number of EVs that they need to in order to be allowed to sell their target number of ICE cars in the ZEV States. This has been their MO in the past and there is no reason to believe that has changed. They have no desire to sell EVs, they are not EV advocates nor do they have any intention of disrupting their highly profitable ICE sales any more than absolutely necessary.

[@leffingwells]

@@mcamodell I don't disagree with you, but do you have some inside information to prove your statement or are you just basing it on past behavior of Kia? I own a Niro EV and so far the engineering and design seems really good. In other words, it does not seem to be just a Compliance vehicle. They may only produce and sell a small number because battery supply is so constrained and because they probably lose money on each one that they sell.

[@tombodera3338]

Good job Ken. Love all the new camera angles. Need to get the drone shots in there but piece by piece. Glad you got the car for review as it is a key one.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Tom for watching and for feedback. The Drone will take awhile as we have to now get a license and take a course. Money grab by the government and the test if very hard. $1000 fines if you get caught without a license, so it will be awhile for me to be using the drone.

[@tombodera3338]

@@EVRevolution no course the the online lis ence $10 per try test yes. I am working on mine now and will let you know how it is.

[@melvyn4460]

Great video and awesome information, really enjoy your reviews of EVs. Do you by any chance have a video or information as to the costs of running an ev, such as a leaf and subcompact ev?

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching and appreciate the feedback! If you check out my Leaf reviews, of my own personal Leaf that I had, I do go over some costs. Look at the 2 month review and the "Getting Coffees With Leafs" episode, where I also provide some info near the end of that show. If you need more info, please email me at [e-mail].

[@melvyn4460]

@@EVRevolution Thanks ever so much Kenneth. Will check thos videos out.

[@David-bl1bt]

Great video, I love your presentation style. Concise & factual. FYI and clarification, the maximum charge rate for the Kia e-niro is 75kW. That's good thro to around 70% battery state-of-charge, thereafter it drops to 22kW AC.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the feedback David and for watching! Appreciate the info and hope you subscribe and watch my channel!

[@JohnRoss1]

Thanks for the review Ken. We had a quick chat at the Waterloo Plug and drive event, still waiting for my Niro EV.. One thing though. the battery pack hangs under the car giving 6 inches or so of clearance. I was driving through a town in the process or resurfacing their road and there were raised manhole covers which I drove around with my MKZ , but I wondered if a Niro EV would clear it if I goofed and drove over one.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi John, thanks for watching and for comments/feedback. Yes I am sure the Niro clearance would be enough.

[@LuckyChow]

Really nice review! You covered details that other reviewers passed up. I really enjoyed your comments and opinions.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and appreciate the feedback, thanks for watching. Hope you are subscribing too!

[@AhBeeDoi]

I'm picking up my EX Premium today. Really excited.

[@EVRevolution]

Good choice!

[@metricstormtrooper]

The Mitsubishi I-Miev was a normal car, (just not a normal American/Canadian car) The car shared the body with the Mitsubishi i which shared to a degree the engine and gearbox with the smart for two, although being a kei Jidosha in Japan its engine was limited to 660cc.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks greggy for watching and for the observation. Yes it was, but it still was such a polarizing and limited vehicle that it was hard for the general masses to adopt. Was one of the first BEVs to start the movement so creds are given!

[@karlbloss]

Great review! I appreciate the comments and comparison to the LEAF Plus. I know you're a fan of the LEAF (as am I except for the passively-cooled battery), so your recommendation over a LEAF Plus holds weight for me. Thanks! I'll be passing through Ontario soon, so if you see a red Tesla bubble nose from Michigan, wave. :-)

[@EVRevolution]

Hey Karl, appreciate you watching and for feedback! Yup I'll certainly wave and hope you stop to spend some of those American dollars here in Ontario!

[@karlbloss]

@@EVRevolution I'll definitely be spending a few loonies here, especially on butter tarts. :-) My 2015 Model S charges for free though. Keep the shows coming!

[@highheels200]

No app, sunroof or tow bar in the UK for some reason plus a 14-18 month wait. I'm going to wait for the app before we buy. I think it's key to know charging is working while you're eating, if there is a fault with charging you want to know rather than waiting an hour to come back to an uncharged car.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Andy for watching and appreciate your comments!

[@jamespaul2587]

Andy, do any of the charge providers in the UK offer their own apps? In Canada, I often use ChargePoint stations which notify charge status through the app.

[@David-bl1bt]

App and sunroof now available in the UK now.

[@xxZerosumxx]

Great review Kenneth.

[@EVRevolution]

Much thanks Javier and appreciate you watching!

[@gordonwalls7281]

Great review Ken. I was wondering if the software updates over the air. Thanks.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello, I tried the update but it was looking for a USB device, so I don't believe its OTA. Thanks for watching!

[@yacahumax1431]

Great info. What an awesome EV alternative.

[@EVRevolution]

Yes I think so to, thanks for watching!

[@gilgingras5599]

Great review and thanks for what you do.

[@EVRevolution]

Appreciate the feedback Gil and for you watching.

[@be236]

I finally got this Kia Niro EV 2019 in "the states." It's an upgrade from my Nissan LEAF 2017... can't wait to drive around with its longer range...

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Andrew, thanks for watching and great you finally got the new Kia! You will love it!

[@martyndemers1264]

Great review Kenneth, the E Nero is the car I would buy if I were in the market to change it’s great value. Thanks for showing the window blind that covers the side window, first time that I have seen it in a review. We had that feature on a Mini Clubman and we found it a very useful feature, not seen it on any other car even our Mini Countryman doesn’t have it!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks martyn for watching and for your feedback! Yes it is a great value and sometimes its the little things that can make a big difference.

[@berndmichalik7995]

Hi Ken, it`s a great review. Thanks for that. Unfortunately the UVO system is not available in Europe, I don`t understand that. Also the leadtime of 16 month is horrible. Have a good Weekend, Bernd

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Bernd, appreciate you watching and for the feedback. Wow still that long eh...that is rough. I really hope they get their s$%t together and crank up production. Did not know about the UVO, thanks for letting me know.

[@Simonmc78]

It's available in Ireland now

[@RWBHere]

Thanks, Kenneth, for a very informative, balanced and entertaining review. The video measures up to your normal very high standard. The car seems to be very carefully designed and crafted, and it's a credit to Kia. Now if they were made much more readily available, like Renault have done with the Zoe, that would be the icing on the cake. We don't really mind you using 1830's British Imperial units! But it does seem odd to hear a Canadian giving archaic dimensions which most viewers no longer use. I used them formally for the last time in 1987, and the younger generation here think primarily in SI. Converting units is not a problem here, but they must confuse many people.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the feedback. Measurements and the like were downloaded before hand from the Kia USA website, so hence my numbers. I try to do some conversions, but really people can figure it out easily enough. Thanks for the feedback!

[@magarity12]

Good review. Was wanting to get this or Kona but had to buy something else since not available around us currently.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Craig, as long as you joined the "Revolution", does not matter which EV you get!

[@Carpetone]

Excellent review as always! I’m curious to know if the Niro EV has wireless Apple CarPlay? So while it’s charging on the pad are you able to still use your iPhone via the infotainment screen?

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Ryan, thanks for watching and appreciate the feedback! Hope you are subscribing too! I did not test that specifically so cannot answer that question. It does support bluetooth audio streaming.

[@halparttwo]

you`r over looking the obvious Kenneth. how in the world can you say a car is the best in the world, when you still can`t buy one. i've contacted the dealers in my area and none are available. the model S is still the best electric car in the world, period! love your show!!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Hal for watching and appreciate your feedback and comments. Buying one is relative as each Region and Geo is different. Most have some wait times but here in Ontario it seems to be only about 3months or so to what I am told. Other areas may be longer of course, or shorter. So you can buy one right away, it's getting delivery that you may have to wait for. And for the USA, it's only the ZEV states I belie (14 or so) that are getting them to start so yes I can understand that. However, people can order one from another state and ship it to home. Not impossible. I know Tesla and their S is a great BEV, one of the best. However for the masses, it's way too expensive and too big for many urban use cases.

[@halparttwo]

@@EVRevolution Thanks for your thorough reply. once again love your show,keep up the good work!

[@blackbelt2000]

such a scenic drive...wouldn't mind living there.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks, just north of my development. Caledon ON is a great area! Appreciate you watching!

[@sergedesnoyers2222]

Great video and review the only thing missing was the price and are they options for different price

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Serge, yes I did not get into pricing since that is easily found online and varies from country to country. Me putting up CAD pricing is useless for someone in the USA. Plus, different regions offer different trim packages too so it's always best to look it up oneself. Appreciate you watching!

[@critikill1]

Hopefully they’ll eventually come to my state so i can test drive it. So do you think it’s really production constraints or are they limiting sales because of profit margins?

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Justin, thanks for watching and for the question. I don't think it is for GP, but cell constraint issues. They've only launched it in states having ZEV or incentives, which makes some sense to spur initial orders. However, they really do need to open it up to all states, but it's the manufacturing constraints limiting I believe right now. I'm hearing it may take them 6-12 months to really be able to ramp up.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@EVRevolution I wonder if they have a "better" battery due and don't wish to flood the market with old stock.

[@jeffnreno5080]

Great review and certainly a vehicle to consider when the charging infrastructure gets built out or if an individual need is within their existing one since it's expanding rapidly.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks sir!

[@jamespaul2587]

Thanks for another great review Ken! This looks like a solid, well equipped mainstream EV which should sell well if production can keep up with demand, especially in areas with incentives. It really does blend in though, Kia should offer a trim package with vinyl lightning bolts all over to help advertise that it's an EV! 😉 Are you planning to test drive the new longer range Soul EV also? It seems like a great vehicle as well, and I believe it shares the battery and motor with the Niro, in a somewhat "funkier" package.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks!

[@markpalmos]

Nice review, but MANY features listed are not available on most e-Niros... these advanced features are for the level 4 or 4+ trim level only. This really should be made clear as people will be disappointed if they bought one and found all these goodies missing! Good review nevertheless. I'm getting my e-Niro 2021 tomorrow (trim 3)

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the info and congrats on your EV purchase!

Finally got mine and this helped me finding the easy access for the drivers seat :)

[@EVRevolution]

Hi thanks for watching! That is great and congratulations....welcome to the "Revolution"! :)

[@gillespelletier9161]

Great show as always. Just to point out the leaf plus has auto eco+ when you get low on battery. Also the ProPilot is a bit better with its learning ability getting better over time. The e-niro was my second choice I'm not a fan of cross-over looks.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Gilles for the comment and feedback. Appreciate you watching as always. Yes correct, that is "turtle mode" on the Leaf. I agree, PP is pretty good but I found the Niro EV to be just that bit more finessed, ever so slight. Both are great EVs and that's the beauty of having choice.

[@hdidane00]

Excellent reviews. keep up the Good work.

[@EVRevolution]

Much appreciated for the feedback and for watching!

[@puntuated]

Nothing to do with this show but thought you might be interested in the new eMini will be priced at £23,400 to £30,000 in the UK.

[@EVRevolution]

yes saw the announcement and will talk about it on an upcoming show thanks!

[@NeilVaughan]

Great video and a great car. Subscribed..I think you'll get to 10K subs quickly.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello Neil, much thanks for watching, feedback and for subscribing! Appreciate it and hopefully I'll get to 10K subs. If not, I'm fine with whatever I have as I'm in this for the cause.

[@BernhardPfaffenlehner]

I drive a eNiro for 4 month and can confirm all that stuff. The only thing I don't like but it is not really important is the melody when starting the engine - it is not possible to turn it off or reduce the volume.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Bernhard for watching and for your comments. I believe there was a selector for turning the welcome screen on/off in the centre menu options. Not sure if that also turns off the melody.

[@SoWErA]

@@EVRevolution what??? There is where???

[@EVRevolution]

Hi SoWErA, in the menu screen of the Binnacle.

[@stefanjohansson3670]

A good video with fair comments. And I liked to really full review, especially when charging. Please use back light if possible.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Stefan for watching and appreciate the feedback!

[@XY_Dude]

I just bought a new 2019 Niro. I am generally very pleased with the car. It has a dizzying array of options and settings! The one knock I have with the car is the suspension. Personally, I find it rather unaccommodating on wavy roads. It feels like it is bucking, making it hard to manage a smooth accelerator setting. I thought the suspension on my Ford C-Max was superior (very subjective as you mentioned).

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your experiences so far! Congrats on joining the "EV Revolution", BTW! Yes I found it to be pretty good and for sure it will be subjective. I'm actually going to change out the stock suspension in my Model 3 soon for a more comfort ride setup. I find the stock system a bit jarring and I've had many complaints now from my family who ride in the back seat that end up getting car sick, even with a modest trip. I don't do jack rabbit starts or stops and drive very conservatively but this seems to be common. Did not happen on my Leaf, so I believe it to be the suspension. Again, everyone will be different so as long as you are ok with the Niro, great for you. You may want to look at other suspension options or add ons that might help with your ride experience, down the road.

[@XY_Dude]

@@EVRevolution oh, one other thing… That funny spaceship sound you hear is the low-speed aural alert for pedestrians. I believe that is now a government mandate.

[@EVRevolution]

@kyedude Yes also in reverse makes a great spaceship sound too!

[@bcosVic]

great review - I am sold on the recommendation

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching! Appreciate the feedback and you won't regret getting anything electrified from Kia these days!

[@Quickicecarreviews123]

Hey if u wanna grow faster on KZbin, doing live-streams seems be the key now. My wife has done lot of research and it is helping her channel grow. You do such a good job it always surprises me when I see 6k subs. So professional! Hope your channel booms soon.

[@EVRevolution]

Why thanks Quick ICRs, appreciate you watching and for the feedback and ideas. Time for me is the issue as this is not a full time gig for me, I have a full time job which keeps me very busy so I squeeze in the KZbin when I can. I may try a live stream as I'd like to do a Q&A session.

[@adstix]

In addition to live streaming, I think a collab with a big EV KZbinr can also help boost subscription

[@EVRevolution]

One of the things I'm hoping for in the future too. However, I am perfectly fine with my slow and steady pace.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@EVRevolution Slow, steady, accurate, honest. That's what "we" want.

[@abbaby555]

Fantastic review! Thanks for sharing

[@EVRevolution]

Much thanks for watching and for the feedback! Glad you found it helpful.

[@jwenting]

Seriously considering buying either this one or the e-Soul. Soul's my favourite at the moment, mostly because the options packages make it quite a bit cheaper than an equivalently fitted Niro and for my use I don't need the slightly larger internal volume the Niro provides (heck, the Soul is plenty large enough for me).

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks CD for watching my show! Good for you, the new Soul EV is a fantastic buy. Same powertrain and battery system/bms as the Niro EV, but in a slightly less costly package. Great amount of room as well! Let me know what you decide and thanks for considering to join the "EV Revolution"!

[@jwenting]

@@EVRevolution Ordered me an e-Soul yesterday, expected delivery March 2020. Hope that's long enough for the city to build a charging station near my house, they warn of a 6 month lead time after you request one...

[@madswellejus]

Thank you so much for the review. I have ordered an E-Niro, eta 18 months. I would like to know if the window in the roof can open, is it manual or electric? Is there an app for this car for preheating etc...? Does the breaklights light up when regenerative breaking? Tx again

[@EVRevolution]

Your quite welcome Mads, glad you enjoyed my episode and found it helpful. Even better is that you are joining the "EV Revolution" - albeit in 18 months! That is a long wait time. The roof opens like a normal power moonroof/sunroof and it is very nice. It is electric/power. There is an app but I did not have a chance to try it out, but yes it will do most basic operations like pre-heating/pre-cooling, etc. Great question on the brake lights. No, they don't and I mentioned this as feedback to my Kia contact as I think this is a bit of a safety hazard. That is one think Nissan did great on with the Gen 2 Leaf (2018 and beyond) is incorporating brake lights coming on when in e-pedal mode. This only works in that mode, not in D or B mode when regenerating. Many manufacturers have not considered this and I think they all should make this a standard feature, that anytime you are regenerating past 0.2G, regardless of what mode, the brake lights should come on. Let me know if your E-Niro ETA changes.

[@adstix]

Hey Ken! Very meticulous review 👍 But if the summer range is 385-400km, what should we realistically expect in the harsh Canadian winter? The heat pump is reassuring though!

[@EVRevolution]

Hello ad, thanks for watching. I use a rule of thumb of worst case of up to 50% range loss. I experienced that with my Gen 2 Leaf my first winter when we got -30 degrees C and I was all highway driving. At 110kph I would have only got about 130-150kms. I did not do a full run to test it at that time. Yes, heat pump does make a great addition!

[@rogerstarkey5390]

Do you tend to reduce mileage in extreme cold, simply due to general conditions, even when driving ICE vehicles?

[@mcamodell]

Kia soul EV with same battery chem(2017+) takes a 18% hit in sub zero temps and a 12% hit in 40+cel

[@i3theanswer]

Specs between different markets/trims are very vague. Does the base trim in Canada have the heat pump and battery thermal management standard like the Kona? If not, can it be optioned in separately as in the USA?

[@EVRevolution]

Hi thanks for watching. All Canadian offerings have heat pump and BMS/ATM as standard. Niro EV and Kona EV share the same platform and powertrain (battery pack, motor, etc.). Niro is stretched a bit for more interior room. As far as USA options, you are best to check out their USA websites for exact trims and options available, as it does vary county to country.

[@JeanPierreWhite]

Very thorough review!!

[@EVRevolution]

Thank you!

[@ericjohnson3967]

My guess is the 0 to 60 is 7 seconds. Same HP more torque than the Bolt (6.5 0 to 60)

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Eric....7.8 seconds, 0-62mph.

[@ericjohnson3967]

@@EVRevolution people on KZbin have done it faster

[@EVRevolution]

Yes @Eric, that is just the advertised spec.

[@ronaldgarrison8478]

The left side of the display, behind the steering wheel, has a rapid flicker. Is that some sort of artifact of two different flicker rates, of the car and camera?

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Ronald, yes sir that is frame rate video issue. The actual display was fine. Thanks for watching!

[@claytonroot806]

Yes

[@safa1745]

Sir. Thank you so much for this awesome review!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks safa, appreciate the feedback and for you watching!

[@ronaldfradet4033]

Great review ken

[@EVRevolution]

Thank you sir!

[@rickdeckard9810]

Excellent, thanks Ken!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Rick, appreciate you watching and your feedback.

[@paulcooper8818]

Good review, thanks

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching and for feedback.

[@pianodon]

Hi Kenneth. I have owned a Nissan Leaf for 4+ years so I am firmly on the EV bandwagon. I need more range and before this virus started, I was planning to get a Tesla Model 3. I've had to put that off now because of changes on my income, so to speak. However as a musician, I have equipment to move occasionally. I think the Niro EV we'll fit the bill better than that that tiny little Tesla trunk. My main complaint is, in the US, the Niro EV is $6,000 more then the Tesla Model 3. Yes I know about the tax rebate and all that stuff. But I will be financing $6,000 more. Fortunately, I have almost talked myself into it. I'm waiting now for a couple of things to happen in my life and then I will find the red one that I want. They're difficult to find. But I'm tired of black and silver and white cars. Give me some color! Thanks for your reviews. They're always informative and you're not threatening at all, nor are you threatened by any of this. I love it that you're so matter-of-fact about things. Thanks a lot. And I'm a new subscriber even though I've watched your videos before.

[@EVRevolution]

Hey much thanks @pianodon (I can guess what instrument you love to play!) for the kind feedback and for sharing your experience and story! Really appreciate it and thanks for being an early joiner to the "Revolution"! :) I hear you when it comes to choice and the Kia's are great (under-appreciated) BEVs that hold their own for range, efficiencies, etc. The Niro EV is a fantastic vehicle that I really liked, as you heard. Nothing is perfect but this is really good. For hauling stuff, yes I agree the Kia would be easier than the Model 3 for getting stuff in and out and more cargo space/volume. It's a good choice. As I tell everyone, you do what you want and need to do, when you feel you can do it. Don't feel pressured to buy something that costs a lot and gets one into debt, just to look cool of go with the fandom parade. You don't seem that type and your thought process shows me that. Best of luck in your Niro EV search and I'd love it if you sent me a pic once you get one so I can post it on one of my mailbag segments.

[@brianclaeys277]

The charging cord that comes with the car, is it dual voltage, 110 to 240 volts. Or is it strictly a 110 volt charging cord. Thanks.

[@djscandela]

Brian Claeys It’s 120v same as Kona EV and gives you 1.3 kws per hr

[@EVRevolution]

Hello @Brian and thank @Dave for responding. Yes the one with the vehicle was just for a 3-prong 110/120v outlet. Not a dryer plug or other. Trickle charge as per @Dave.

[@maxsec2]

UK ev car of the year, and I'm very lucky to drive mien alot....

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Martin, glad you are part of the "Revolution" and congrats! Appreciate you watching!

[@4_the_health_of_it]

Thank you, great review.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching, appreciate the feedback!

[@4_the_health_of_it]

EV Revolution As a follow up, we are going to sign a 36 month lease on a 2019 Niro EV EX Premium, day after the New Year.

[@ericjohnson3967]

I hope the 2nd generation Nero and Kona don't have that battery lower than the rest of the undercarriage.

[@thelondonbroiler]

This and price is why I went with a Bolt EV. Better performance and known reliability were primary factors too.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks @Eric and @thelondonbroiler for watching!

[@vicjay1972]

The Kia imo has a much nicer and far more comfortable interior. It doesn't look or feel cheap like the Bolt does. The battery position has no practical downside in any normal use application. Niro undercarriage is much more aerodmic as well. The other thing about the Bolt that I didn't like was how easily the wheels break loose upon acceleration. Similarly the Kona does as well.

[@nc3826]

what is a Nero? and all bolt in battery packs, will protrude a miniscule amount.... including the Bolt's battery pack....u need to buy a Tesla or Rivian instead...that use a skateboard design.... if it's really matters to you???

[@ericjohnson3967]

@@nc3826 polstar 2, the Niro is a bad design (pack that low) period. And the others that do the same are all FWD. No thanks.

[@be236]

Kia Niro EV driver seat seems too firm for me, as compared to my old Nissan LEAF, which had more comfy/softer/wider driver seat. And I do agree Niro EV has louder road noise.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching Andrew. Yes, each person is unique in what works for them!

[@blackknight9127]

Buy three years from now, get it at 50% off selling price and see what happens with the non LG batteries. Great reporting!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks!

[@rogerstarkey5390]

You seem to think LG cells are a better choice than SKI? Considering that Nissan used LG packs and had (have) problems, but VW are in a new JV with SKI, I would wait and see.

[@be236]

After driving my Kia Niro EV on a 30-min drive, I noticed that the driver seat is a little tight and seems to "hug" me.. similar to Chevy Bolt EV (though not quite so tight/bad). I didnt notice this in my old Nissan LEAF 2017 (its seats were wider I think)... anyone else noticed this?

[@EVRevolution]

I did not notice it but again, everyone is different!

[@be236]

@@EVRevolution ok, maybe it's just me then... oh well.. maybe I'll just get used to it...

[@mtumasz]

Pls do more reviews, not just new EV’s - there aren’t enough reviews by guys with your experience

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching and for the feedback. The news is the staple of my channel and something I can do on a more frequent and regular basis. Reviews are more time effort and I don't get vehicles that often. I'll continue to try my best!

[@toptobottom247]

This is the perfect transitional electric car to adopt newcomers to the electric side. It doesn't help that the availability is M.I.A.

[@EVRevolution]

Thank Anti, my thoughts exactly. At least one of the great transitional vehicles (I would say the Gen 2 Leaf and Bolt and Kona EV will do the same for newcomers too) and yes, hope the availability is spooled up. But hey, the Model 3 took 3 years to get so what's 3-6 months?

[@mcamodell]

@@EVRevolution Kia will only produce and sell exactly the number of EVs that they need to in order to be allowed to sell their target number of ICE cars in the ZEV States. This has been their MO in the past and there is no reason to believe that has changed. They have no desire to sell EVs, they are not EV advocates nor do they have any intention of disrupting their highly profitable ICE sales any more than absolutely necessary.

[@EVRevolution]

@Cameron, sure for all the auto manufacturers really except Tesla, their EV motivations have all been California & ZEV mandated motivated. At least for the USA and similar in Europe. However, those days are being left behind, albeit a bit later that I would have hoped for, as more and more manufacturers spend money and efforts to spool up EV products. They are all really about 4-5 years behind Tesla in that capability. So yes Kia's motivation may be ZEV focused to start, but I disagree with you on their future movement and see them along with most of the other mainstream manufacturers going deeper and deeper into the EV marketplace. It's just taking more time from most of these, but they are starting to see the big picture. Just because some of them are not out there screaming and "advocating" for EVs, does NOT mean that they are not planning for the future. New car offerings take 3-5 years from conception to dealer showroom, so it is happening.

[@0ooTheMAXXoo0]

Not a lot of 2019 EVs to compare this to. Best out of like 3 options? What other cars were new for 2019?

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching. I'm comparing this to all of those in that range club, not necessarily new for 2019. These include Leaf e+, Model 3 SR+, Kona EV and Bolt EV.

[@be236]

I do like an EV that looks like a regular car, want to blend in and not stand out in public... I have Nissan LEAF 2017 and my next EV will likely be Kia Niro EV. Really like its range, some people say it can do 500km ... That's great.. one issue I dont like is the cheap / flimsy dangling two charge lids by the plastic cords. So cheap.. they should it made with hinged caps, like Nissan LEAF (see Honda E, which uses CCS as well , and they have the hinged caps).

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Andrew, yes that is a small point I noticed too, but really did not make too much of a difference in if I would buy it or not. They could have made that a bit better, however many other BEVs have similar (VW, Audi, Chevy, etc.).

[@be236]

@@EVRevolution Actually, Chevy Bolt EV has a hinged flap for their CCS port that nicely flips open and close.. and again Honda E CCS lids looks nice too... I'm not saying that the dangling cords is a show stopper for me, but it just looks cheap and ugly to just dangle like that.

[@EVRevolution]

@@be236 Thanks Andrew for the correction. Been awhile since I last looked at the Bolt's charging flap so forgot.

[@veilsidesp]

So much wrong info in this video. Please do some research before posting these reviews, for example the max charge rate is 77kW not 100. A simple google search would telll you that.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching. Ok, so I did a typo on the one info statement, but I did not say it charges at 100kW. I just gave times for 10-80%, so give me a friken break. I do get the stats on the cars, at the time I film, from the OEMs. A simple mistake does not warrant "so much wrong with this video" feedback.

[@richardarnold9326]

Very good!

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Richard for feedback and for watching!

[@bln3576]

WHERE'S MY E NIRO KIA. I`M IN CANADA. STILL NOTHING ON THE LOTS. WTH

[@EVRevolution]

Hello B LN, thanks for watching. I can understand your frustration, but remember Model 3 reservationists waited over 2 years for their cars. So a few months is not too bad. I don't know what Niro EV lead times are here in Canada, however it is what it is. Glad you have an order in for one and for joining the "Revolution"!

[@puntuated]

..... after incentives!

[@EVRevolution]

Yes!

[@OrdinaryDude]

Hard to get? Huh, I walked into the dealership and drove away in one a couple hours later.

[@EVRevolution]

Hello Derek, wow lucky you! In many Regions the Niro EV/e-Niro is hard to get. Congrats and thanks for joining the "Revolution"!

[@OrdinaryDude]

@@EVRevolution Heh, I just got tired of throwing $100 bills in my Ford F-150.

[@huss1205]

Was thinking of buying it instead of my diesel 2017 Volvo XC60, but decided to stop, better buy a Volvo electric car when you live in Sweden...

[@EVRevolution]

Hello and thanks for watching! Sure, the all-electric XC40 is coming soon and that will be a great BEV! Best of luck and let me know what you decide on!

[@abbaby555]

Nice car

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@AnnihilatedBrainsample]

You mentioned that the vehicle is noisy. You should drive an ICE vehicle sometimes, and see that it not really that noisy. 🙂 Plus you are driving a leaf, one of the quietest EVs, so maybe your opinion is a bit biased. 🙂

[@EVRevolution]

Hi Andrew, thanks for watching and appreciate your comments. Yes sir, I've been driving ICEVs for over 30 years (I've owned everything from Vegas to Camaros to 260Zs to TR7's, so I think I know quite a lot about ICEVs and how noisy they are! There is no bias in my reporting, or at least I try my darnedest to not have any. It's really the first thing I noticed about the Niro is the noise level. After driving and/or being in a Leaf, Zoe, iPace, Model 3, Model S, Model X, Bolt, Ionic, i3 and e-Golf, it's so far the loudest (even though it is much quieter than an ICEV of course!). I have yet to ride along or try the Kona EV, the Audi e-Tron and the Mercedes EQC - all 2019 model year BEVs, so I can't tell you about them yet. Like I said, it's not loud compared to ICEVs, but to other BEVs it is noticeable (at least to me). Nothing that would deter me from buying one.

[@AnnihilatedBrainsample]

@@EVRevolution Maybe than it is my perspective that is off. I am a truck driver, and those vehicles are NOISY! When the engine is idling, you have to almost yell so someone next to you can understand you. And after that my Kona Electric is very silent.

[@EVRevolution]

@@AnnihilatedBrainsample Correct Andrew, trucks and many other vehicles are loud indeed. The Kia Niro is still very quiet to compare against those.

[@propellhatt]

Now if only Kia could add another guy to the production team so there's more than one guy building them, that would help.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Ole for watching and for the comment! Very funny, yes it does seem like that with the waiting times I am hearing for orders. Hope they will add another guy and his cousins to pitch in to double production!

[@drc6940]

Kenneth is the sort of dad who would pick you up from a session of underage binge drinking and not discuss it with you until have processed what you did to yourself first.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for the compliment drc! Appreciate you watching. I'm lucky and blessed to have a wonderful daughter who is really good. My wife and daughter are very supportive of what I do here on this channel, otherwise I would not be doing it.

[@claytonroot806]

Nothing negative to say about the review Ken. I was aware that Hyundai owned a major stake in Kia but did not know the Kona and Niro EV's were built in the same plant. I do believe the Niro EV is probably a great car. However, the price, The Price, THE PRICE! We own a 2018 Kia Niro Touring Hybrid and love it. I won't say what we paid for it last July (less than MSRP) but will instead deal with current list prices. The current SX Touring Hybrid with Freight/PDI etc. is $35,629. The Niro EV SX Touring with Freight etc. is $56,129. The ADDITIONAL 13% sales tax payable on that difference is another $2,665. Of course, the Niro EV qualifies for a $5,000 Federal Rebate but the net price difference is still $18,165. Not to mention the investment income that 18 grand could generate over the life of the vehicle. Ironically, the net net price difference for the PHEV version of the Niro versus the Hybrid Touring works out to only $2,000 even. I can make an economic argument for that. With it's 50 kilometer EV range, for most of OUR driving that would be a full EV but without ANY Range Anxiety when we take a road trip. Additionally, it's 9 Kwh battery can be charged overnight during off peak rates on a simple 120 Volt outlet so no additional expense required there for a 240 Volt outlet either. We've owned our Niro Hybrid for just under a year and have traveled 17,108 kilometers on $896.42 worth of gasoline at an overall consumption rate of 5.268 litres per 100 kilometers, including all our winter driving with snow tires. It's doing much better than that in the summer months. Upon completion of a fill-up, we have a range of over 900 kilometers so trips to gas stations are few and far between. Of course we've had to pay for 2 oil changes as well at a cost of just over $100. I personally don't buy into the argument that brakes will last longer on EV's due to the salt conditions we experience in southern Ontario. The brakes will RUST out prematurely just like they do on all other vehicles in this winter climate. Feature for feature the Niro EV and our Hybrid Model are virtually identical and I'm glad to see that Kia Canada has retained most of the BONUS Canadian features such as Heated Rear Seats, Memory Seating for the Driver, Metal Clad Pedals, and 115 Volt High Wattage Outlet in the back. That is NOT true in all global markets selling the Niro EV, so good on Canada for that. One thing the Niro HYBRID Touring has that they've removed from the Niro EV is "Dual Zone Climate Control" up front and my wife and I REALLY appreciate that feature as our temperature preferences are totally different. Both vehicles have "Driver Only Mode" for the climate control system. The Full EV also loses the beautiful 18" wheels with which our Hybrid was equipped. So what does the Niro EV offer that our Hybrid Niro doesn't? Reduced emissions for sure and its probably quieter MUCH of the time around town although the VESS noise generator on the pure Electric is really pretty annoying. The PHEV version would be equally quiet most of the time in the city with it's moderate EV range. On the highway, we don't find the engine noise on the Hybrid model intrusive at all. In fact, I really only detect that the engine is running by watching the Instantaneous Fuel Economy Bar Graph. The stop/start operation is really smooth and virtually undetectable. The full EV version DOES have more punch with that additional 100 lb/ft of electric torque but I've never found the hybrid particularly lacking, especially in Sport Mode where it can light up the tires from a standstill, along with my wife's "What the Hell are you Doing" voice. The Niro EV has a nicer centre console design with innovative cup holders and an electric parking brake. Sadly, Kia has still insisted on using "Piano Black" trim, as is all the stupid rage in vehicles these days. May this trend die a quick but painful death, along with giant guppy mouth grills, floating roof-lines, and those ugly tacked on afterthought Infotainment Systems. The full EV Niro also gets the adjustable regenerative braking paddles which are not present for the Hybrids regenerative braking systems that are just automatically controlled. The Niro EV SX Touring has LED headlights whereas the Hybrid version makes do with Hi-Intensity Discharge projector lamps. HOWEVER, that lighting system on our Hybrid garnered the Niro Hybrid SX Touring Model a "Top Safety Pick Plus" rating due to those headlights and I can attest to the fact that they are fantastic, without blinding oncoming drivers. I haven't yet seen the rating for the Niro EV's LED headlights, which incidentally also come on the PHEV version of the Niro in Canada. One of my biggest beefs with FULL EV's is the paltry charging infrastructure available in Canada (at least where I live) coupled with the fact many are not functioning and WORSE, there are ICE vehicles parked at the few stations which ARE available MOST of the time. It's just so damn frustrating! I've watched MANY of Bjorn Nyland's videos and can't count the numerous times there has been an issue when trying to charge, ie stations don't work, won't connect, cut out partway through a charging session, etc. etc. It was interesting that this Niro EV in Ken's review apparently BROKE the charger at PetroCan and they couldn't reboot it. Can't remember the last time I ever broke a gas pump when refueling. Additionally, the ridiculous rates charged at MANY of those "Fast Charging Stations" approach the cost of using gasoline to travel the same distance. So much for the supposed savings. I just can't see any way to economically justify an EV for any apartment dweller without access to "Low Rate Overnight Charging". I don't want to write the Niro EV off but in my mind, it is still at least $10,000 too expensive for what it is. Honestly I was completely stunned when the prices were revealed!

[@EVRevolution]

Wow thanks Clayton for all that great detail on the differences in the Niro EV vs. its' siblings and other regions. I can certainly appreciate the pricing complaints and that is simply that cost parity has not been achieved yet. Unfortunately, we are not seeing less than $100 US per kW cell pricing anytime soon. Some predict in less than 5 years and I hope so, but I still think its a tad longer than that. So regardless, it does suck for the average consumer to fork out a lot more money for a similar ICEV hence why we still need some incentives to help with this. I've talked about ROI timelines and it can be 8-10 years for some other BEVs so one really needs to do their homework first. However, you hit the nail on the head with your emissions comment. To me, that is the most important thing and if I have to pay more to do it, I will because I can. Many can't and I understand that, hence why we need every single car manufacturer to get in the EV game and start producing hundreds of thousands and millions of EVs a year in order to get the pricing down for adoption.

[@claytonroot806]

@@EVRevolution I've seen somewhere, (can't remember the video) that PHEV's could achieve 90% of the Emissions Reduction versus pure EV's BECAUSE most people don't drive more than 50 kilometers per day on a regular basis and are therefore operating in pure EV Mode most of the time. SO, with the current global shortage of batteries, they could use the available limited supply to produce more than 6 PHEV Niros (with it's less than 10 Kwh battery) instead of 1 Niro EV with it's 64 Kwh battery. By my math, that would currently make a far greater total contribution towards total global emissions reduction, at least until the battery supply issue can be resolved with more suppliers jumping into the fray.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi, yes that is the idea with many PHEVs. Enough battery-only range to accomplish most daily tasks. That where PHEVs like the Outlander, SC90 and Pacifica can really shine. I for one drive about 50-60kms regular a day, so someone like me could fit this profile use case. However, PHEVs still have an engine and even though it's smaller and just used as a generator, still emits emissions. So the end goal is to for all to go totally electric but PHEVs are a good stop-gap for now until we really get a market saturation of BEVs with more choice and lower mass-market pricing. Agree with your thoughts Clayton about more PHEVs for same number of cells as a BEV. I personally still try to highlight BEVs more but for many use cases, a PHEV is great step into EV adoption.

[@leffingwells]

I recently bought a Niro EV in Massachusetts for $37,000 (Dealer sold for 9% UNDER MSRP). After the U.S. credit of $7500, and Massachusetts rebate of $1500, the price of the car to me will be $28,000. That is quite reasonable considering the technology in this car and the lower fuel cost (free charging at work). I don't think it is too expensive at all. When comparing to the Tesla Model 3 SR+, the total cost to buy the Niro EV, including taxes and fees, ends up being approximately $9,000 less.

[@ronaldfradet4033]

Well got you beat 16 years canadian airforce

[@EVRevolution]

Wow, thanks for your service!

[@catinhotlanta]

Hyunda actually owns 33% of Kia.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks Larry for watching!

[@ronaldfradet4033]

Ken i was an enlisted men not an officer Lol

[@EVRevolution]

Ha, so was I! I work for a living so don't call me sir! :). 3-years reg force Canadian Navy.

[@johnevans6399]

Try buying one!! 😭😨

[@EVRevolution]

Hi John, thanks for watching! Yes I understand that in many regions these continue to be constraint but they are worth the wait!

[@g-palmer4760]

By the time this is available to buy, it will be several years out of date. Other than a battery and an electric motor, it's "just another car". Nothing innovative, nothing new, nothing exciting - just "a car". All are trying to "photocopy" Tesla - none is doing it very well. Trouble is... if you've ever driven a Tesla, and really examined the tech it uses, everything else looks mundane.

[@EVRevolution]

Thanks for watching and appreciate your comments. However not completely true....its not like another car...it produces Zero Emissions! And thats' the secret sauce and most important attribute to BEVs. I totally disagree that all are trying to copy Tesla. Polestar may be the closest since they've actually said they are targeting the Model 3 directly. Tesla has done a fantastic job at helping to validate a market that only a decade or less ago, really did not exist. So we've made great bounds but remember, ICVs have had over a 100 years to dominate this market so it will take some time to reach a tipping point. And vehicles like the Kona EV will help us to get there.

[@g-palmer4760]

@@EVRevolution You miss my point. These automakers would not be going near EV if Tesla hadn't forced them to, and would have continued to reluctantly trickle out compliance cars to suit legislators and avoid heavy penalties. Even now (take BMW's exiting Chief as the most recent example) they are still kicking and screaming against it. This Kona won't be available for over a year, and when it is available, it will not be enthusiastically sold by the dealers. Another point you miss is that these pathetic efforts on the part of legacy makers is that they are largely futile. By the time EV reaches "tipping point" we are likely to be in (or close to) the realm of robotaxis, when most people won't need or buy a private car - especially one that can't be leveraged to benefit them financially. Teslas are already FSD capable (regardless of when authorisation occurs), and this makes the Kona (and all others like it) functionally and economically redundant. It is dumb for anyone to consider it as a viable option - even right now. It's easy to laud the features of these compliance cars, and reviews like yours do just that. The bigger picture (usually missed by most car reviewers) is what really should be under scrutiny. I repeat my assertion... This is "just another car".

[@rogerstarkey5390]

This is (when available) one of, if not the "best of the rest" Some say it's as efficient as the Model 3. Don't knock it, save criticism for the higher priced options that *don't* perform?

[@g-palmer4760]

@@rogerstarkey5390 I always respect your comments and criticisms Roger, and this one is no exception. A few months ago, my 2006 Kia Sorento conked out and was too expensive to repair. (I also have a 2008 Kia Cerato, used by my kids). So I visited the Kia dealership, who had a Kona on show. I asked for a test drive, but was told the car was "not yet ready". Some days later, I re-visited to look at a used car they just got hold of, and again asked for a stint in the Kona. "Not ready for test driving..." was the response. I was eagerly shown the latest ICE Sorento (as I had owned one for 12 years already, from this dealer), and offered a "really good deal" if I elected to take it. I asked when the Kona would be available to test. "We'll call you..." Also, I was told that it would be a good 12 - 14 months before it would be available. I aim to get a Tesla Model 3 (probably Jan 2020), so am not interested in an ICE. I ended up getting a used Rio (to tide me over until the Tesla) for just under £4k. That was in May... to date, I am still waiting for the dealership to call me about taking the Kona for a test drive. I have been a Kia/Hyundai customer since 1994. You would think that meant something to them. They are NOT INTERESTED in selling this car... which is "just another car..." You can verify the makes & models of my cars: MA61CWL EY06AOA EG06CSZ ... at www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/ ... just in case anyone doubts my claims above.

[@EVRevolution]

@G-Palmer, thanks for the passionate discussion. I'm not missing your point but to glorify Tesla all the time is not going to help the EV cause. No matter what you believe, many don't want to buy a Tesla so we need (even these so called "futile") efforts from the other auto manufacturers to really affect change. Stop living in the past and look to the future. If we need a tipping point to be reached (which I don't think will be robo taxis anytime soon), we would need about 47 million EVs sold per year to break the 50% global sales numbers. You think Tesla can do that alone! No way ever. So we need everyone to get into this game and to do it fast. Tesla has had about 9 years to refine the BEV process and that is all they do - they don't build anything else so it's not truly fair to compare all the other EVs out there to Tesla. They have the best BMS and battery management on the planet, but really that is about it. I still think their quality is sub-par for a premium brand (in 9 years they still don't have it right) but of course this gets lost by their great performance, cool looks, bend-over-backwards post-sales service and the hype. For the masses, even the Model 3 ain't it - it could be if it was $20 grand. But since that is never happening from Tesla anytime soon, nor really should it be since after all - they are a premium brand, we need to look to the other manufacturers to get into economies of scale and help to drive down the pack costs, etc. So I really don't think the other manufacturers are "pathetic" as you call it and saying this to someone interested in an EV will turn them off so fast, and that's the problem with your remarks like this. You have to look at the big picture and sure it's ok to have favourites and talk about them, but also look at what else is available and that everyones needs are different. The more choice we have, the better to support EV adoption. Btw, you keep saying "Kona" when talking about Kia. Hyundai makes the Kona, Kia makes the Niro EV/e-Niro. Get it right please. FSD is still a moot point as regardless if tech is there, which IMO it is NOT, regulations and other authorities/companies will not embrace it anytime soon. So you might as well step off of that bandwagon. I for one would not trust FSD as we humans are so irregular and unpredictable that it's really hard to protect against that. We've been driving ICEV for over 100 years, the vast majority of those years with no tech assists, cruise control was the only thing. So many people don't need nor want FSD capabilities and the keep it simple approach stands. Many needed systems like AEB and I hope Blind spot monitoring are and will be standard features in the future. Remember when the third rear stop light came out, that was mind blowing too many. Time will tell but your opinion of FSD is overrated nor impractical at this time. And autonomous fleets can certainly happen but they and ride sharing will not take over the majority of driving needs anytime soon. Maybe in 50 years. We will see. As always, thanks for watching but please keep in mind the bigger picture for true EV evangelization and the Niro EV is NOT, "just another car" period.

[@EV-olution]

Nicely done. I have had my Niro EV since May 6th and you cover pretty much all of the bases.

[@EVRevolution]

Hi great thanks for watching, appreciate the feedback! Glad you have your Niro EV and hope you love it.