The Kia EM14 is a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor produced between 2020 and 2023. It features a single-speed reduction gearbox and liquid cooling, delivering 150 kW (204 PS) of power for responsive acceleration. This motor is designed for front-wheel-drive applications in Kia's dedicated EV platform, prioritizing efficiency and smooth power delivery.
Fitted exclusively to the first-generation Soul EV (SK3), the EM14 was engineered for urban agility and long-range commuting. Energy management was optimized through a sophisticated inverter and regenerative braking system, meeting stringent global EV safety and efficiency standards.
One documented concern is potential degradation of the traction battery's state of health (SoH) under sustained high-temperature conditions. This characteristic, referenced in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑21‑EV‑008, is linked to thermal management system performance. Kia addressed this in later production runs with enhanced battery cooling algorithms.
All production years (2020–2023) meet UN R100 Rev.3 safety and EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 emissions standards for zero-emission vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/EM14/01).
The Kia EM14 is a 150 kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for compact EVs (2020-2023). It combines a single-speed reduction gearbox with liquid cooling to deliver smooth, linear acceleration and high efficiency. Designed to meet global EV safety and efficiency standards, it balances performance with range.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric | |
| Configuration | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 0–10,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 395 Nm @ 0–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | N/A | |
| Emissions standard | Zero Emissions (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007) | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (motor and inverter) | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | Dedicated EV reduction gearbox oil (Kia EV Gear Oil) | |
| Dry weight | 89 kg |
The EM14 provides instant, silent torque ideal for city driving and highway merging. The single-speed gearbox requires no routine maintenance, but the dedicated gearbox oil should be inspected every 40,000 km. Battery health is paramount; avoid sustained DC fast charging and prolonged exposure to extreme heat to mitigate SoH degradation per TSB 21-EV-008. The regenerative braking system reduces brake wear but requires periodic calibration. Software updates via OTA or dealership are critical for optimal thermal management.
Oil Specs: Requires Kia-specific EV Gear Oil for the reduction gearbox (Kia Owner's Manual SK3). Not interchangeable with conventional ATF.
Emissions: Certified as Zero Emissions under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/EM14/01).
Power Ratings: Peak power and torque measured under ISO 8854 standards. Sustained output is thermally limited (Kia TIS Doc. KTIS-EV-EM14-01).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTIS-EV-EM14-01, TSB 21-EV-008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/EM14/01)
ISO 8854: Road vehicles - Engine test code - Net power
The Kia EM14 was used exclusively in Kia's SK3 platform with transverse mounting. This motor received no platform-specific adaptations, as it was designed solely for the Soul EV. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The EM14 motor is not user-serviceable and has no external engine code stamp. Identification is confirmed by the vehicle's VIN and model designation (Soul EV). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'E' for electric vehicles. Visually, the Soul EV can be identified by its closed front grille, unique alloy wheels, and 'Soul EV' badging. Differentiate from the Niro EV: the Soul EV (SK3) is boxier and uses the EM14, while the Niro EV uses the EM13 or EM16 motor.
The EM14's primary reliability consideration is traction battery State of Health (SoH) degradation, with elevated incidence in hot climates or with frequent fast charging. Kia TSB 21-EV-008 documents this characteristic, while owner reports frequently cite 12V auxiliary battery failures. Adherence to charging best practices is critical for long-term range retention.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2020-2023) and aggregated owner-reported data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA EM14.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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