South Korean automaker Kia has revealed more details about it upcoming its EV3 SUV and confirmed that deliveries of the compact BEV will begin this summer.
The compact BEV is the first in a series of upcoming launches in different vehicle segments, for which Kia announced concepts last year. The medium-sized EV5 SUV will follow, after the brand's large EV9 SUV began shipments this year.
The EV3 will be introduced first in South Korea in July 2024 with a European launch following in the second half of the year. Kia also says it has plans for further launches, but says only that these will target "other regions."
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The EV3, with both its size and price point, is entering a burgeoning small SUV market segment, which in Europe has seen the Volvo EX30 rise meteorically to become the continent's third best-selling EV in only its fourth month on the market. Other OEMs such as Citroen, DS, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Mazda, MG, Opel, Seres and Smart also play in this increasingly crowded space, while the Alfa Romeo Junior will be available to order this summer.
Although EV leader Tesla still enjoys a commanding share of European BEV sales, the compact B segment in which both the EV3 and Volvo's EX30 find themselves is seen as the traditional core of the European car market, and both vehicles have the advantage of being much newer than Tesla's aging line-up.
Kia claims a 600km range for the EV3 standard model, a figure which if realised will make it the EV a range leader for vehicles its size. The standard model features a 58.3kWh battery, while the long range variant boasts an 81.4kWh battery.
However, the lab-tested charging time between 10pc and 80pc state of charge in 31 minutes is slower than leading batteries, such as global battery leader Catl's Shenzhen cell, and indeed lab-tested range figures are to be taken with a grain of salt.
Kia CEO Ho Sung Song saying that "the EV3 aims to extend Kia’s exceptional EV SUV experience to a wider audience". With a WLTP driving range of up to 600km and fast-charging capability, the EV3 addresses common concerns about electric vehicles.
"It will reassure those who may have been hesitant to make the switch to electric mobility and will lead the mass adoption of EVs,” he adds.
Ciaran has written about finance, politics and culture. He is passionate about e-mobility and what it means for our way of life.
Ciaran has a Masters in Ancient Philosophy from Oxford University.
