Leviton Supplying Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions for 2015 Kia Soul EV

MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 6, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Leviton announced today that it has been named by Kia Motors America as a preferred provider of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) for the Kia Soul EV. As part of the agreement, Leviton will utilize its Evr-Green^® line of EVSE to provide electric vehicle charging solutions for both Kia Soul EV customers and dealerships.

Utilizing Leviton's Evr-Green 320 (Level 2, 32 amp, 240 volt) and Evr-Green 400 (Level 2, 40 amp, 240 volt) charging stations allow Kia Soul EV owners to charge their vehicles in about five hours, compared to the standard 24-hour charge time when using the vehicle's standard Level 1 (120 volt) cord set. The enhanced capabilities of Leviton's Evr-Green charging stations enable Kia Soul EV drivers to maximize the charging efficiency of the vehicle's 6.6 kW on-board charger.

"Leviton is honored to be selected by Kia Motors America as our industry-first 32A and 40A EVSE offer a complete solution for Kia's residential and commercial customers, and help fulfil Leviton's overall mission to provide safe and easy to use of EVSE," said Manoj Karwa, Senior Director of EVSE Programs for Leviton's Commercial and Industrial Business Unit. "Our Evr-Green electric vehicle charging stations not only meet the most stringent industry standards, but also provide a unique ability for Kia Soul EV consumers with the vehicle's 6.6kW onboard charger." 

Offering the highest-level of safety for Kia drivers, both the Evr-Green 320 and 400 feature more robust components and a heavier gauge charging connector wire, allowing the charging station to run safer and cooler as compared to competitive charging stations. By incorporating Leviton's industry-leading GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupting) devices into the CCID (Charge Circuit Interrupting Device) of the Evr-Green stations, Kia Soul EV users can expect maximum safety. The "Auto-Restart" feature enables charging to restart following a minor fault, thereby reducing the chance of being stranded with an undercharged battery.

"The Soul EV is the centerpiece of Kia's Clean Mobility program and offers customers all the cool design and functionality of the Soul while appealing to the growing demand for electric vehicles," said Orth Hedrik, vice president of product planning for Kia Motors America.  "Partnering with Leviton for our customers in-home charging needs is a great fit for KMA because of Leviton's commitment to quality, efficacy, and value."

The Evr-Green 320 is available with either an 18- or 25-foot charging cable, while the Evr-Green 400 comes standard with a 25-foot charging cable, both providing more flexibility for mounting locations.

Leviton manufactures a proprietary J1772™ compliant charge connector that exceeds National Electrical Code and Underwriter Laboratory standards. This unique charge connector assembly provides a higher level of safety and faster charging performance for the Evr-Green 320 and 400 charging stations.

Kia Soul EV customers can purchase the Leviton chargers at any authorized retailer, distributor or www.leviton.com/kia.  To learn more about the Leviton electric vehicle charging solution offering customers can visit www.leviton.com/kia or call 1-855-MYKIAEV (1-855-695-4238).

About Leviton Commercial and Industrial
Leviton's comprehensive line of commercial and industrial-grade electrical wiring devices provide builders, contractors and specifiers with solutions engineered to withstand  the most rigorous commercial environments and harshest industrial applications. Leviton manufacturers everything from commercial, industrial and hospital grade wiring devices, to surge protective devices, electric vehicle supply equipment, temporary power solutions, heavy duty motor starter switches, IEC and NEMA watertight rated devices and more. Learn more at www.leviton.com/industrial.

About Leviton
Leviton is the smart choice, providing the most comprehensive range of solutions to meet the needs of today's residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Leveraging more than a century of experience, Leviton helps customers create sustainable, intelligent environments through its electrical wiring devices, network and data center connectivity solutions, and lighting energy management systems. From switches and receptacles, to daylight harvesting controls, networking systems, and equipment for charging electric vehicles, Leviton solutions help customers achieve savings in energy, time and cost, all while enhancing safety. For more information, visit www.leviton.com, http://www.facebook.com/leviton, http://twitter.com/leviton or http://www.youtube.com/Levitonmfg.

J1772 is a trademark of SAE International.

SOURCE Leviton