Kia launches EV3 compact SUV with strong mileage performance
Kia's EV3 compact electric SUV / Courtesy of Kia
Kia unveiled Thursday its much-hyped electric SUV, the EV3, to break through the ongoing cyclical downturn for electric vehicles (EV) with this affordable compact model.
The EV3 is Kia’s third all-electric model equipped with its electric global modular platform (E-GMP) which is adopted by the carmaker and its sister firm, Hyundai Motor.
Kia aims to lead the popularization of EVs with the launch of the cheapest model under its EV-branded vehicle category. The carmaker launched its first-ever E-GMP-powered crossover SUV, the EV6, in 2021 and diversified the lineup by launching a larger family SUV — the EV9 — in 2023.
The EV3 has two models in terms of the battery types. The long-range version features an 81.4-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack, and the standard type comes with a 58.3-kWh pack. The vehicle is equipped with a nickel-cobalt-manganese battery.
Kia CEO Song Ho-sung, left, speaks during an online press conference, after uvneiling its EV3 compact SUV, Tuesday. Courtesy of Kia
Kia noted the vehicle’s mileage range. The long-range model can drive up to 501 kilometers on a single charge. It can also be charged up to 80 percent from 10 percent in just over 30 minutes with a quick charger, according to the carmaker.
“The EV3 is a compact SUV developed to offer more sophisticated EV experiences to customers with our differentiated value,” Kia CEO Song Ho-sung said during an online press conference. “The EV3 can travel 501 kilometers with one charge, which was certified by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, so we have alleviated lingering customers’ concerns (as to EVs’ mileage performance). The latest vehicle will drive the popularization of EVs.”
According to the Kia chief, the price for the EV3 will start from around 35 million won ($25,600) for an entry model here.
The carmaker expects the launch of the vehicle to help rev up its EV sales here and abroad. The company places its focus on key markets, such as Korea, the United States and Europe. The EV3 will be manufactured at the firm’s production line in Gwangmyeong, Gyeoggi Province. The vehicle will begin mass-production in June.
The interior of Kia's EV3 SUV / Courtesy of Kia
Kia also plans to diversify sales of other affordable EV models, including the EV2, EV4 and EV5, in the foreseeable future.
Another key upside of the EV3 is its artificial intelligence (AI) assistant — powered by generative AI technologies — allowing drivers and passengers to enjoy innovative connectivity experiences in the vehicle. The Kia AI Assistant enables customers to have interactive communication with the vehicle with more ease. They can talk to the system to enjoy some entertainment content or search for information.
The vehicle is also equipped with a 12.3-inch information display and Harman Kardon’s premium sound systems, providing customers with vivid infotainment experiences while they enjoy content inside the car, Kia said.