Autocar India
TH

tharun

3h

Hi Autocar India, I regularly read your news and advice articles, and I find them both interesting and helpful. I would like your guidance regarding a future car purchase. I am interested in buying an EV, particularly the upcoming Kia Syros EV. However, I have concerns about two aspects. First, as far as I understand, Kia currently does not offer a DC home charging solution, and I would prefer faster DC charging over conventional AC home charging. Second, I am concerned about battery health. My understanding is that current EV batteries cannot stand frequent DC charging. Is there a possibility that Kia could launch the Syros EV with a DC home EV charger and battery technology that can better withstand frequent DC charging? Given these concerns, would you recommend proceeding with the Kia Syros EV when it launches, or would it be wiser to postpone the purchase until these issues are addressed? I would appreciate your advice.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
45m

No manufacturer currently offers a DC fast charger for home installation as part of a mainstream EV package. Home charging is almost universally done via AC chargers, while DC fast chargers are intended for public charging networks.As for battery health, there is no evidence to suggest Kia Syros EV batteries are unusually sensitive to frequent DC fast charging compared to other modern EVs. While regular DC fast charging can increase battery wear over very long periods, modern battery management systems are designed to minimise this effect.If an EV is predominantly charged using DC fast chargers or is rarely charged to a high state of charge, it is generally advisable to charge it to 100 percent occasionally. This allows the battery management system to accurately calibrate and balance the individual cells within the battery pack, helping maintain optimal performance and range estimation. However, there is no need to charge to 100 percent every day. For routine use, most manufacturers recommend keeping the battery within a moderate charge window and reserving full charges for longer journeys or occasional battery balancing.

VI

Vimlesh

8h

I am confused between the Honda Elevate V MT and the Kia Seltos HTE MT. I live in a Tier-5 city that also has some hilly terrain. My usage is around 40% city driving and 60% highway driving, and my annual running is moderate. I like the Honda Elevate for its engine response, strong initial pickup, mid-range performance, long-term reliability, and generous rear-seat legroom. However, I am not entirely comfortable with the driver's seating position and legroom, and I feel it may not be as comfortable on long drives. Another concern is that the nearest Honda service centre is about 100 km away from my location. On the other hand, the Kia Seltos offers a much better interior, more features, excellent driving comfort, and ample legroom. While the rear-seat space is not as generous as the Elevate, it is still comfortable and sufficient for my needs. It also has a service centre close to my location, a good service record, and better parts availability. However, I find the initial pickup to be less impressive, and I am slightly concerned about the engine's long-term reliability. Considering all these factors, which one would you recommend as a family car?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
3h

You seem to have answered your own question. The Kia Seltos seems to be the better pick for you on account of its comfier seats, and proximity of its service centre. Sure you might miss the Elevate's energetic performance, at least initially. However, the Seltos' 1.5-litre petrol engine is smooth and has adequate pep for most scenarios. Also, this engine has been doing duty in many Hyundai and Kia models for many years now, and it has proven to be quite reliable so far.

VehicleKia Seltos