If you’re considering a 2016 Kia Soul EV Wagon or already own one, understanding its battery is crucial. The heart of this electric vehicle (EV) is its battery pack, which defines everything from range and performance to charging times and longevity. In this text, we’ll dive deep into the specifics of the 2016 Kia Soul EV’s battery, what type it uses, its capacity, how it performs, and how to maintain it for the best driving experience. Whether you’re curious about range or want to compare it with other EVs, you’ll find all the clear, reliable information you need right here.
Overview of the 2016 Kia Soul EV Wagon
The 2016 Kia Soul EV Wagon stands out in the compact electric vehicle market thanks to its distinctive design and value-packed features. Unlike traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, this EV relies entirely on an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery pack. The Soul EV was Kia’s first fully electric model aimed at providing practical urban driving with zero emissions. Its battery system is the cornerstone of this mission, balancing range, performance, and cost-effectiveness. Understanding this battery helps you get a better grasp of what drives the vehicle and how it fits into the EV landscape of its time.
Key Features of the 2016 Kia Soul EV Wagon’s Battery
Battery Type and Chemistry
The 2016 Kia Soul EV is equipped with a lithium-ion polymer battery. This chemistry was chosen for its excellent energy density and lighter weight compared to older nickel-metal hydride batteries. Lithium-ion polymer (Li-Po) batteries also provide a flexible packaging design, allowing Kia to optimize the battery shape and integrate it neatly under the vehicle floor. This contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving handling and interior space.
Battery Capacity and Range
The battery pack has a total capacity of 27 kWh. When fully charged, you can expect an EPA-rated driving range of approximately 93 miles. While this may seem modest compared to more recent EVs, it was competitive for a 2016 urban-oriented electric vehicle. This range is most suitable for daily commuting and city driving, though longer trips require planning for charging stops.
Battery Voltage and Configuration
The battery operates at a nominal voltage of around 360 volts. Composed of multiple cells arranged in series and parallel configurations, the design ensures efficient power delivery and safety. This voltage supports the electric motor’s peak output of 109 horsepower, offering sprightly acceleration for city conditions while maintaining efficiency.
Performance and Efficiency Related to the Battery
The battery’s design directly impacts the Soul EV’s performance and efficiency. With a 27 kWh battery delivering 109 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle accelerates smoothly and responsively for urban driving. The instant torque typical of electric motors means you get a peppy feel off the line.
Efficiency-wise, the 2016 Soul EV achieves about 120 MPGe combined (miles per gallon equivalent), thanks largely to its battery and powertrain efficiency. The energy recovery system during braking helps extend battery range, while temperature management keeps the battery operating within optimal thermal limits to preserve capacity and performance over time.
Charging Options and Battery Management
Charging the 2016 Kia Soul EV’s battery is straightforward but depends on your infrastructure.
- Level 1 Charging: Using a standard household 120V outlet, a full charge can take about 24 hours. While convenient, it’s best suited for overnight charging if you drive minimal daily distances.
- Level 2 Charging: With a 240V charger, charging time reduces significantly to around 5 hours for a full charge, making it ideal for home or public charging stations.
- DC Fast Charging: Unlike some newer EVs, the 2016 Soul EV supports CHAdeMO fast charging, which can charge the battery to about 80% in roughly 30 minutes. This is invaluable for longer trips or quick top-ups.
The vehicle also incorporates a Battery Management System (BMS) to monitor individual cell performance, regulate charging and discharging processes, and maintain safe operating temperatures. This system helps prolong battery life and prevents damage from overcharging or overheating.
Battery Warranty and Longevity
Kia offers an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty on the Soul EV’s battery, reflecting confidence in its durability. Many drivers report solid battery longevity beyond this period, especially with moderate usage and proper care.
Over time, it’s typical for lithium-ion batteries to experience some capacity degradation, usually around 10-20% over 8-10 years. The Soul EV’s battery management and thermal control systems help mitigate faster wear, but real-world factors like driving habits, climate, and charging patterns will influence how quickly you see capacity loss.
It’s reassuring that Kia backs the battery strongly, and replacement options, while costly, remain available should the battery ever fail outside warranty.
Maintenance Tips for Optimizing Battery Life
To get the most out of your 2016 Kia Soul EV’s battery, consider these essential maintenance tips:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Park in shade or a garage during hot summers, and pre-condition your cabin while plugged in before cold starts.
- Use Level 2 Charging Preferably: Frequent fast charging can stress the battery, so reserve DC fast charges for when you really need them.
- Don’t Always Charge to 100%: Charging to about 80-90% for daily use can prolong battery health, full charges are better reserved for when maximum range is needed.
- Keep Software Updated: Kia periodically releases updates to optimize battery management.
Following these practices will help maintain battery efficiency and extend the usable lifespan of your EV.
Comparison With Batteries in Other Electric Vehicles of Its Time
Compared to contemporaries like the Nissan Leaf (2016 model with a 30 kWh battery) and the BMW i3 (with about 22 kWh), the Kia Soul EV’s 27 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery offered a balanced approach.
While the Leaf had a slightly larger capacity and so longer range, the Soul EV gained points for its battery packaging and overall vehicle practicality. The BMW i3 prioritized lightweight construction and so had a smaller battery but boasted a premium electric driving experience.
Overall, the Soul EV’s battery was competitive: it delivered competent range and respectable performance, all while maintaining cost-effectiveness and reliability suitable for urban drivers. Its fast charging capability via CHAdeMO was also an advantage over some early EVs that lacked quick charge options.
Conclusion
Understanding the battery in your 2016 Kia Soul EV Wagon is key to appreciating its strengths and limitations. The 27 kWh lithium-ion polymer pack strikes a practical balance, providing you with reliable range, solid performance, and advanced charging features that fit everyday driving needs. With proper care, the battery will serve you well for years, supported by a robust warranty and a smart battery management system.
Whether you’re commuting in the city or planning your next EV purchase, the 2016 Soul EV remains an informed choice, especially if you value balance and efficiency over maximum range. By following the maintenance tips and charging wisely, you’ll ensure your EV’s battery stays healthy and ready for the road ahead.