Kia Motors is making its mark in the growing list of small battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) with its 2015 Soul EV that arrived late last fall. The Soul EV takes a page out of Tesla's playbook with a new all-wheel-drive concept and lithium-ion battery pack.

The vehicle garners an EPA operating range of 93 miles with a fully charged battery pack, which is second only to the Tesla Model S among the current lineup of BEVS, reports Car and Driver.

The second-generation Soul model's 620-pound battery pack is secured into place by five transverse subfloor beams which, surprisingly, do not compromise space in the cargo bay. The beams do, however, give the new Soul a weight of about 3,400 pounds – several hundred pounds heavier than its predecessor.

A 6.6-kilowatt onboard charger sets behind the grille for convenience and sports SAE J1772 Level 1 and 2 ports, along with a CHAdeMO DC fast-charge port. The Soul EV charging time is in line with other BEVs: approximately 30 minutes to acquire an 80-percent charge at a public DC fast-charge station, 24 hours on 120-volt household current and four to five hours with 240 volts.

The synchronous AC motor with 109 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque propels the Soul EV. A single-speed transmission drives the front wheels.

While the electric motor's throttle response is followed by smooth, linear acceleration, it takes 10.7 seconds to attain 60 mph, according to Car and Driver. The time it takes to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph is impeded by the car's hefty weight.

There is plenty to love about the new Soul. The noise of an internal-combustion engine is replaced by the sound of tires on pavement, the electric motor whirring and air rushing through the cabin. The ride is smooth. It handles well with accurate steering.

The Kia Soul EV has a base price of $33,700, which Kia Motors claims can be reduced to $26,200 by taking advantage of a $7,500 federal tax credit. The base model is well equipped with a rear camera, navigation, Bluetooth and software to monitor distance-to-discharged, battery-charge status and help find charging stations.

The EV Plus, which has a retail price of $36,500, adds power-folding mirrors, projector-beam fog lights and heated leather seats.

Currently, California is the only place you'll be able to buy a Soul EV, initially. California offers a $5,000 rebate on the purchase or lease of all hybrid vehicles.

Kia may expand availability of the Soul EV to other states in 2015, but no formal announcement has been made.

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