FYI: The highly anticipated Kia EV3, an affordable and efficient electric vehicle, has already hit the South Korean market and will soon be making waves in the U.S.
Missing Out on South Korean EVs? Here’s Why
Some days, it feels like not living in South Korea means missing out on some of the best innovations in the automotive world—specifically, cutting-edge electric vehicles from the Hyundai Motor Group. Beyond my fondness for efficient public transit and tteokbokki, South Korea is currently home to the newly launched Kia EV3, a compact electric SUV making substantial waves before it reaches U.S. shores next year. Recently, YouTube’s CarSceneKorea took this hot, budget-friendly EV for a spin, heightening the anticipation for its international release.
InsideEVs Gears Up for Test Drive
While InsideEVs will have a chance to put the EV3 through its paces soon, CarSceneKorea’s first impressions are already setting high expectations. Far from being a mere successor to the Kia Niro EV, the EV3 stands out as a significant advancement within Hyundai’s E-GMP platform. This development might make it one of the most compelling electric car options available at any price point. "It’s the compact EV SUV we’ve all been waiting for," remarked DK Kim, host of CarSceneKorea.
EV3: A Quick Overview
Kia’s EV3 is a subcompact crossover priced to start at approximately $35,000. Here are some key features:
- Battery Options: Two choices—58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh packs.
- Projected Range: The 81.4 kWh pack is expected to offer around 300 miles of range in the U.S.
- Enhanced Technology: Packed with new technical advancements over the EV6 and EV9.
- Charging Efficiency: Operates on a 400-volt electrical architecture, which keeps costs down though charging speeds are slightly reduced.
Performance and Feel
Kim’s test drive in South Korea saw the EV3 starting at a 95% charge with an impressive 464 kilometers of range (about 288 miles), suggesting the 300-mile U.S. range estimate is very credible. The vehicle’s design, both inside and out, offers a premium feel. The infotainment system draws from the more advanced interface found in the EV9, moving away from older generations like that in the Kia EV6.
Efficiency and Comfort
Even in "boiling hot" and humid conditions, Kim noted an efficient energy consumption rate of 5.3 km per kWh (around 3.2 miles per kWh). The EV3 also boasts a more adjustable i-Pedal system, automated Highway Driving Assist 2 technology, and spacious second-row headroom, making it an all-around impressive package.
Final Thoughts
This first look at the EV3 suggests that it is more than just an affordable electric option. As we await its U.S. debut, it’s clear that the EV3 holds promise for anyone interested in cutting-edge, affordable electric vehicles.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
