South Korean automaker Kia has just previewed the upcoming EV3 electric SUV by releasing several teaser photos ahead of its global premiere later this month.
Kia EV3 maintains the concept design
Kia shared initial teaser photos of its new EV3 compact electric SUV in a press release on Tuesday, flaunting its “bold, geometric and robust” exterior design and dynamic styling.
Kia has been teasing the EV3 as a smaller, more affordable, and more “plant-based” electric vehicle model than its stablemates.
Interestingly, the production model looks just like the concept exhibited at the LA Auto Show. It is also apparent that the EV3 features many design cues similar to the larger EV5 and EV9, such as the boxy shape.
As you can see in the photos, the Kia EV3 has boxy rear fenders and a tailgate. It also comes with the Star Map lightning theme.
According to Kia, the new electric SUV’s design originates from its globally lauded “Opposites United” design philosophy. Therefore, the Kia EV3 also features a “tiger face” grille and tall wheel arches to align with the brand’s other electric vehicle models.
Technical Specifications
The new Kia EV3 is expected to tide on the same E-GMP platform as the popular EV6 and EV9. However, unlike its siblings, it will not reportedly use the 800-volt architecture.
It will feature a lower-cost 400-volt architecture, enabling the company to keep its price at the $30,000 threshold.
Debut and Launch Timeline
Kia is highly optimistic that launching the smaller and lower-cost EV3 will boost its electric vehicle sales. It can potentially attract budget-conscious customers with its enticing price and innovative technologies.
“Set to extend Kia’s EV offering and deliver the elevated customer experience from the brand’s flagship models to the compact SUV segment, the EV3 will accelerate the global EV transition by providing a more accessible solution for customers considering the switch to electric mobility.”
Kia
Excitingly, Kia confirmed plans to officially hold the EV3’s global premiere event in South Korea on May 23, 2024. The company will livestream the event on the Kia Worldwide YouTube Channel at 7 PM KST (6 AM ET).
