The latest third generation Kia Soul EV has made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show bringing long-range and zero tailpipe emissions power to the urban crossover class.

While the Soul EV still embraces the iconic design and playful character of its predecessors, it will be powered in Europe exclusively by electric energy, with a choice of two long-range, zero-emissions powertrains. The Soul EV’s new-generation battery packs – either 64 kWh or 39.2 kWh in capacity – are up to 30 per cent more energy efficient than Europe’s current best-selling electric vehicle. An internal combustion engine option will not be available in Europe.

Fresh, funky and distinctive, the new Soul EV features the same iconic, boxy silhouette, with newly-sculpted lines, sharper details and more technical lighting elements. Inside, the cabin is more high-tech than ever, with its cool design and ultimate functionality accompanied by acoustic-inspired shapes and textures, and a new Sound Mood Lighting system.

The Soul EV is offered with new colour customisation options, and a range of technologies which includes heated and ventilated front seats, a Head-Up Display, a wireless smartphone charger and a premium harman/kardon sound system.

At the heart of the Soul EV’s dashboard is Kia’s new 10.25-inch TFT LCD widescreen system, featuring Kia’s new UVO CONNECT telematics system. This system puts a raft of information at owners’ fingertips, including live traffic, weather, and parking availability. For the Soul EV, the set-up also provides vehicle charging information, including charging station locations, charger availability, and connection compatibility.

The system can also be accessed via a UVO smartphone app, providing remote access to a range of vehicle functions. Depending on country, this includes the ability to remotely activate the climate control system, to pre-heat or pre-cool the car before a journey. Users can also remotely stop or resume vehicle charging, enabling them to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity tariffs if charging from a domestic source.

The Soul EV goes on-sale in select European markets from the end of the first quarter of 2019, sold as standard with Kia’s quality promise: an unrivalled seven-year, 100,000- mile warranty, which also covers the car’s electric motor and battery pack. UK on-sale date, specification and pricing for the Soul EV will be confirmed at a later date.