Kia India has introduced a groundbreaking initiative called K-Charge, integrated into the 'MyKia' app, offering access to a vast network of over 1000 EV charging stations across the country. This move signifies Kia's commitment to advancing customer services and easing the range-related concerns of EV users, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the industry.
Kia's K-Charge isn't confined to Kia customers alone; it extends its comprehensive charging network to all EV users in India. This strategic approach aims to alleviate Range Anxiety among electric vehicle users, ensuring convenient access to an extensive charging infrastructure.
To bring this initiative to life, Kia has partnered with five prominent charging point operators (CPOs): Statiq, ChargeZone, Relux Electric, Lion Charge, and E-Fill. Additionally, a special collaboration with Relux Electric offers Kia customers three months of complimentary charging services at their charging stations.
The 'MyKia' app, powered by NumoCity Technologies, integrates the CPOs onto a single platform, enhancing the user experience by providing a multitude of EV services in one centralized application. Users can leverage interactive maps from Map My India to locate stations, check slot availability, and make payments through the app's wallet service.
K-Charge goes beyond simply showing charging stations. It's about convenience and empowerment:
Interactive Map: Locate stations easily with Map My India, a trusted Made-in-India map service provider.
Real-time Availability: Check charging slot availability and choose stations based on your preferences.
Integrated Payment: Pay seamlessly through the MyKia app wallet, eliminating the need for multiple platforms.
K-Charge is not just a customer service perk; it's part of Kia's broader vision, "EV for All". This initiative aligns with Kia's ambitious sales targets:
1 million EVs by 2026
1.6 million EVs by 2030
Kia's commitment extends beyond K-Charge, with plans to:
Introduce global EV models in India
Manufacture an India-specific EV in the RV body style by 2030
This initiative reflects Kia's commitment to embracing technology for a hassle-free EV charging experience, eliminating the need for multiple applications and streamlining the process for EV users. The objective is to simplify EV charging and enhance overall vehicle ownership.
Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, emphasized that K-Charge isn't merely a convenience initiative but a strategic step toward making sustainable mobility more accessible. The initiative aims to smoothen the transition toward an all-EV future, focusing on seamless, user-friendly solutions to accelerate EV adoption across India.
Kia's 'EV for All' vision is deeply embedded within the K-Charge initiative, aiming to achieve significant milestones in the EV market. The brand has set ambitious annual sales targets, aiming to sell one million EVs by 2026, further scaling to 1.6 million units annually by 2030, facilitated by the launch of various long-range Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
Kia has also outlined its robust EV strategy for India, planning to introduce global EV models in the country alongside a locally manufactured EV in the RV body style by 2030. This forward-looking approach underscores Kia's commitment to driving the EV revolution in India