Kia EV6, the first model to be launched under the automaker’s Plan S strategy that sets the foundations for a full product lineup featuring 11 new battery-electric vehicles by 2026, has achieved product carbon footprint certification.
The electric car also accomplished the ‘Carbon Measured’ label from the global climate change and sustainability consultancy, the Carbon Trust. With these two accomplishments, the company became the first Korean vehicle manufacturer to achieve the certificate.
The Carbon Trust 'Carbon Measured’ label validates the accuracy of these measurements and provides customers with independently reviewed information about the carbon impact of their purchase.
According to the press release from Kia, the company’s objective is to ensure that EV6 provides more than just zero-emissions mobility. With this vehicle, the company has focused on measuring and reducing its carbon footprint throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle, ranging from acquiring raw materials, procurement and transportation of parts, vehicle assembly, distribution, use, and end-of-life recycling.
The EV6 is the first model built on Kia’s all-new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and offers significant electric ranges. In addition, the interior space and 800V1 ultra-fast charging make it unique in the EV market. For instance, a range of eco-friendly materials have been introduced to EV6, including PET recycled plastics, floor mats, and seat coverings; this implies that one model contains the equivalent of 107 500ml PET bottles.
The company said that the total greenhouse gas emissions for the EV6 were measured using the PAS2050 Standards as part of the Carbon Trust’s product assessment. It encompasses emissions from the extraction of raw materials through to the end-of-life of the product and is measured in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e).
Sangdae Kim, Head, Strategic Business Planning Division, Kia, said, “This is an important validation of a broad range of measures we are now taking to reduce the carbon footprint of a vehicle throughout its lifecycle. As we introduce more electrified models to our lineup over the coming years, we will step up our sustainability efforts and ensure we are achieving high levels of transparency when it comes to environmental impact.”