Kia Unveils Compact Electric SUV EV3 for the First Time
Long-Range Model Can Travel 501 km on a Single Charge
Sequential Launch in Korea in July, Europe in Q4, and the US Next Year
Kia unveiled the electric compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) EV3 on the 23rd. Following the previously launched EV6 and EV9, it is the third vehicle to apply an electric vehicle-exclusive platform and is an affordable model targeting a broader customer base. With many domestic and international automakers shrinking amid the electric vehicle chasm (temporary demand stagnation), there is keen interest in how the market will respond.
The EV3 revealed on this day comes in two versions: a long-range model using an 81.4 kWh ternary (NCM) battery and a standard model using a 58.3 kWh battery. The long-range version can travel 501 km on a single charge (based on 17-inch wheels and Ministry of Industry certification standards).
Kia Electric Compact SUV EV3. It is the third model to apply an electric vehicle dedicated platform. [Photo by Hyundai Motor Group]
The EV3’s battery capacity (84 kWh) is similar to the long-range EV6 model, which is one class above, but the smaller body results in a longer driving range. The company stated that according to the WLTP standard, widely used in Europe, the range exceeds 600 km. To increase driving distance, the design optimizes airflow around the wheels. The air flap at the bumper, which allows air to flow in and out, is operable to improve cooling resistance. Side sill undercovers and 3D curvature-shaped front and rear undercovers were also applied for the first time by Hyundai Motor Group.
Using a 350 kW-class charger for rapid charging, it takes 31 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% (based on the company’s internal measurements). Unlike the previously released EV6 or EV9, the EV3 uses front-wheel drive with a motor output of 150 kW and maximum torque of 283 Nm. Frequency-responsive shock absorbers are applied to both front and rear wheels, and hydro bushings that absorb shocks and reduce vibrations are applied to the front suspension to enhance driving performance. Sound-absorbing materials are widely used on the interior dashboard and vehicle underbody, and double-glazed soundproof glass is applied.
Kia electric compact SUV EV3. It is the third model to apply an electric vehicle dedicated platform. [Photo provided by Hyundai Motor Group]
The i-Pedal function, which allows deceleration and stopping using only the accelerator pedal, can be activated at all regenerative braking levels. This is the first application among Hyundai Motor Group electric vehicles. Currently, the i-Pedal function applied to Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles can only be used at the highest regenerative braking level. The company explained that braking feel can be adjusted according to driver preference, and the operating range of regenerative braking has been expanded up to the braking limit area. This enhances energy efficiency. Like other electric vehicles, it has indoor and outdoor V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) functions, allowing power to be drawn in various situations.
The Kia AI Assistant function, incorporating generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, is included. It supports various searches based on natural language, enabling two-way communication between the driver and the vehicle. It supports over-the-air software updates to continuously improve vehicle functions, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be connected wirelessly. By subscribing to a separate service, online video streaming services (OTT) such as YouTube can be accessed inside the car. Steering wheel grip detection is applied for the first time in its class, and various safety and convenience features such as front and rear side collision avoidance assist are included.
The company explained that the design emphasizes both dynamism and practicality. The front hood and bumper surfaces are smooth to emphasize a rich impression, and the sides gradually lower toward the rear to give an agile feel. The interior connects three screens: a 12.3-inch cluster, a 5-inch climate control display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The head-up display is a 12-inch windshield type.
Kia Electric Compact SUV EV3. It is the third model applying an electric vehicle dedicated platform. [Photo by Hyundai Motor Group]
The interior ambient lighting brightness can vary according to vehicle speed. The trunk has a capacity of 460 liters, the frunk 25 liters, and a sliding console table that can extend forward up to 120 mm is applied for the first time in the front row. Both the first and second-row seats can recline backward. Recycled materials are used in various interior and exterior parts such as wheel arches, door handles, and mats. The exterior comes in seven colors, including three new colors such as green, and the interior offers three color options. A GT Line with exclusive design elements will also be launched.
The company did not disclose the price on the day but expects that with subsidies applied, the domestic price will be in the mid-30 million KRW range. Overseas, it is expected to be priced between $35,000 and $50,000. Contracts will begin early next month for domestic customers, and delivery is expected to start from July after government certification is completed. The company also announced plans to launch in Europe in the fourth quarter of this year and in the United States next year.
Kia Electric Compact SUV EV3. It is the third model to apply an electric vehicle dedicated platform. [Photo provided by Hyundai Motor Group]
Since electric vehicle demand has somewhat slowed, the company judged that to promote wider adoption, the vehicle must have price competitiveness while maintaining a certain level of driving range, which is the core product value of electric vehicles. Although the EV3 is in a similar class to the previously released Niro electric vehicle, and there are concerns about sales interference, the management stated that there are currently no plans to discontinue the Niro electric vehicle. The sales target is set at 25,000 to 30,000 units domestically and about 200,000 units including overseas markets.
Song Ho-sung, President of Kia, said, "While we targeted early adopter customers with the EV6 and EV9, the EV3 is the starting point for targeting the early majority segment," adding, "We will introduce the EV3, EV4, and EV5 as originally planned for this customer segment."
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