LAST week’s page noted the rise in demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to be largely driven by fleets and business users.

Those who receive a company car as part of their financial package enjoy tax benefits if running an electric model.

Just announced, Kia’s Electrified Event provides incentives for private retail customers to drive an EV.

The promotion covers the EV6, Niro EV and Soul EV, the car shown.

Incentives include a 4.9 per cent annual percentage rate on personal contract purchase plans plus finance deposit contributions from Kia of £500 on the EV6 and Niro EV and £1,500 on the Soul EV.

The Soul EV Urban costs from £32,845 and the Explore version, pictured, from £39,045.

There is quite a difference in price but the Explore, which is more powerful and boasts a larger capacity battery, has a greater claimed range – up to 280 miles against up to 171 miles. The Explore also has a more generous specification.

It took me a day or so to get used to the Soul’s somewhat squarish styling but ended up really liking it. Adding £745 to the price, the test car’s white bodywork and red roof combination is striking and it is unlikely an owner will fail to track down their vehicle in a large car park.

The Soul has a high driving position – something I appreciate – and it handles neatly enough, with the ride generally fine but a trifle fidgety at times.

Like many electric cars, the Soul is a nippy performer, with Kia claiming 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds. Where legal, it is said to be capable of 104mph.

Adult occupants should have no legroom complaints when travelling in the back seats. Some might find the Soul’s boot capacity of 315 litres does not meet their requirements. That being the case, the Niro EV, priced from £37,295 and with a similar claimed range, provides 475 litres.

Like Kia’s internal combustion models, the Soul EV is covered by a seven-year/100,000 mile warranty.

Full details of Kia’s latest incentives, which also apply to non-EV models, are available online or from dealers.