Parking is a source of anxiety for many UK drivers, with a third admitting they feel nervous, worried, or scared when trying to manoeuvre into a space. According to new research by Kia UK, many motorists regularly drive past available spaces simply because they are too difficult to tackle. Bay parking is consistently ranked as the most challenging manoeuvre, with two-thirds of drivers saying spaces are too narrow. Remarkably, standard parking bay sizes have not been formally reviewed since 1976.
The study reveals the real-world consequences of cramped and challenging parking. Over half of drivers have been blocked from entering or exiting their cars, forcing awkward climbs over seats, delays as passengers get out first, or waiting for other vehicles to move before proceeding. These obstacles contribute to lateness for work meetings, appointments, and social events, with nearly one in five drivers admitting parking difficulties have caused them to miss important occasions.
In response to these challenges, half of UK drivers want their vehicles to park themselves or allow remote parking. Kia’s new EV2 offers exactly that. As the brand’s most compact electric car yet, the EV2 is equipped with first-in-class Remote Smart Parking Assist, allowing the car to manoeuvre in and out of spaces from outside the vehicle using just the key. Complemented by a full suite of reversing aids and a 360-degree surround view monitor, the EV2 transforms parking from a stressful chore into a seamless experience.
The Kia Parking Index highlights how different cities stack up for parking. Southampton tops the list as the worst city, followed by Oxford and Liverpool, while Aberdeen is ranked the UK’s best. Local perceptions of driving skill also vary, with Gloucester residents rating themselves highly, in contrast to Swansea locals who see themselves as the country’s worst parkers. Parking mishaps are common, with one in ten drivers admitting to hitting something while parking, and repair costs averaging £388.
Kia has enlisted comedian and self-confessed bad driver Maisie Adam to demonstrate the EV2’s technology. Having passed her driving test after seven attempts, Maisie candidly shares how the EV2 has transformed her approach to parking. She describes using Remote Smart Parking Assist as “like having a remote control car,” offering freedom and reassurance, particularly when surrounded by other drivers.
To give drivers a hands-on experience, Kia has launched the EV2 Smart Park valet service at Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton. Local shoppers can have their cars parked for them, enjoy two hours of free parking, and see the EV2’s innovative Remote Smart Parking Assist in action. This initiative underscores Kia’s commitment to combining advanced technology with everyday convenience, making parking easier, safer, and far less stressful.
The EV2 is the second fully electric model produced at Kia’s Žilina facility in Europe and represents the brand’s latest step in delivering compact, practical, and technologically advanced vehicles. Full UK specifications and pricing will be announced ahead of summer deliveries, marking a new era of stress-free parking for drivers across the country.
