To commemorate its 80th anniversary, Kia UK has teamed up with EV powertrain specialists Electrogenic to unveil a striking one-off restomod—the Kia Pride EV. A symbol of nostalgia and innovation, this fully electric transformation of a 1996 Kia Pride offers a glimpse into Kia’s rich history while highlighting its forward-thinking approach to electrification.
Debuting at Bicester Heritage on October 6, the Pride EV takes a classic model from Kia’s heritage fleet and repurposes it for the modern era. The project, a collaboration between Kia UK and Electrogenic, is not just a technological feat but also a celebration of the brand’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in electric vehicles.
A Modern Classic: From Petrol to Electric Power
Originally powered by a modest 1.3-litre petrol engine producing 60bhp, the Kia Pride has undergone a comprehensive electric transformation. The restomod features an electric motor capable of generating 107bhp—an impressive 77.7% increase in power. The car’s torque has seen an even more dramatic boost, with the electric motor delivering 173lb ft of torque, a 99.2% improvement over the original engine. This newfound performance is channelled through the car’s original five-speed manual transmission, a nostalgic touch that ensures driver engagement reminiscent of the hot hatches of yesteryear.
The Pride EV’s twin battery packs, totalling 20kWh, are strategically positioned over each axle to enhance weight distribution. Despite the addition of an electric drivetrain, the car’s weight has only increased by 20kg, from 850kg to 870kg, allowing for improved agility and balance on the road. This lightweight platform, coupled with the car’s heightened power-to-weight ratio—rising from 71 to 123 bhp per tonne in ‘Sport’ mode—provides a driving experience akin to the performance icons of the 1970s and 80s.
Design Evolution: Retro Meets Futuristic
Visually, the Pride EV retains much of its retro charm. From its original 12-inch steel wheels to its analogue instrument binnacle, the car harks back to its 1980s design roots. However, this homage to the past is seamlessly blended with contemporary touches that link it to Kia’s latest EVs. The exterior has been resprayed in ‘White Pearl,’ a signature colour of Kia’s electric line-up, including the EV3, EV6, and EV9. Lime green interior accents, from the seat piping to the brake callipers, add a playful nod to the vibrant detailing of Kia’s 577bhp EV6 GT.
While the Pride EV’s exterior design remains largely true to the original, the underpinnings tell a different story. The front and rear lights have been modernised to improve visibility, and the fuel filler has been replaced with a Type 2 charging connector. This discreet modification links to a 3.3kW onboard charger, allowing the Pride EV to be recharged in just six hours from a conventional socket, providing up to 120 miles of range in ‘Eco’ mode.
Driving Modes: A Tailored Experience
Electrogenic has equipped the Pride EV with three distinct driving modes—‘Eco,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Auto’—allowing drivers to tailor the car’s performance to different conditions. In ‘Eco’ mode, the car’s power output matches the original petrol engine at 60bhp, with torque limited to 87lb ft for optimal efficiency. This setting is ideal for everyday driving, offering a balance between performance and range.
For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, ‘Sport’ mode unleashes the full 107bhp and 173lb ft of torque, enabling the Pride EV to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in an estimated 8 seconds. The car’s manual transmission, paired with minimal regenerative braking, ensures a dynamic and engaging drive, reminiscent of classic petrol-powered hot hatches.
In contrast, ‘Auto’ mode allows the Pride EV to behave more like a conventional electric vehicle. With smooth, progressive acceleration and increased regenerative braking, this mode is perfect for urban environments and stop-start traffic.
A Nod to Kia’s Heritage and Future
The Pride EV is the third unique project undertaken by Kia UK in recent years, following the Stinger GT420 track car and the Soul EV beach buggy. Each of these projects reflects Kia’s creativity and willingness to push boundaries, whether in performance, design, or sustainability.
Kia’s evolution from its origins in 1944 as a bicycle manufacturer to its current status as a global automotive giant is nothing short of remarkable. The Pride EV represents a fusion of the brand’s past and future, celebrating its heritage while embracing its role as a leader in the electric vehicle market.
As Kia continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup—aiming to offer 15 EV models globally by 2027—the Pride EV serves as a symbol of the company’s commitment to electrification. Though not destined for mass production, this restomod exemplifies Kia’s ability to blend innovation with nostalgia, creating a one-off masterpiece that honours the brand’s 80-year legacy.
