Vehicles from South Korean carmakers Hyundai and Kia often share components and technology, although the two brands compete in the marketplace. The Kia Niro hybrid wagon and the new Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid hatchback share the same platform and powertrain.

The 2017 Ioniq will be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric models – the EV version is expected to show up at California dealers in April.

Kia’s Niro is expected to come to the US later this year, in hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.

Now Michael Cole, COO of Kia Motors Europe has confirmed to Dutch media outlet AutoRAI that a Kia Niro EV will appear in the Netherlands next year as a 2018 model. It will use the same powertrain as the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric, with a 28 kWh battery pack and an 88 kW electric motor driving the front wheels.

The Ioniq Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 124 miles. Green Car Reports estimates that the taller and heavier Niro may deliver a range of 110 or 115 miles.

Kia’s US division has said nothing yet about an electric Niro.

Source: Green Car Reports