Kia has launched the EV3, its first dedicated electric compact SUV, featuring a range of up to 375 miles on a single charge. The vehicle, built on Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), enters the European market as part of the company’s strategy to introduce 15 electric models by 2027.
The EV3 offers two battery options: a 58.3 kWh and an 81.4 kWh version, with fast-charging capabilities allowing a 10-80% charge in 29 and 31 minutes respectively. The vehicle can add up to 125 miles of range in 15 minutes of charging.
“The Kia EV3 is an amazingly versatile vehicle, built and designed to accommodate the diverse needs and distinctive lifestyles of customers across Europe,” said Marc Hedrich, President & CEO of Kia Europe. “It also shows how a high-volume EV can be part of a broad ecosystem that includes in-car payments, over-the-air updates, bi-directional charging, digital upgrades and much more, to make driving more convenient than ever before.”
Notable features include a triple-screen panoramic display combining a 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation screen, a 12.3-inch driver display, and a 5.3-inch climate control display. The EV3 also introduces Kia In-Car Payment, initially partnering with Parkopedia for parking payments through the navigation screen.
The vehicle incorporates Vehicle-to-Load charging, allowing it to power external devices, and is equipped for bi-directional charging capabilities, including Vehicle-to-Grid, Vehicle-to-Home, and Vehicle-to-Building functions, which will be rolled out across European markets.
Engineering innovations include a new compact HVAC system that provides additional footwell space for front-seat passengers and a drag coefficient of 0.263 for improved aerodynamic performance.
The EV3 features sustainable materials, including an optional trunk liner made with 40% recycled ocean plastic, developed through Kia’s partnership with The Ocean Cleanup. The vehicle includes ten sustainable material solutions, supporting Kia’s goal to use 20% recycled plastics in its vehicles by 2030.
Currently available in Europe and the UK with two-wheel drive, Kia plans to introduce an all-wheel drive variant in the future. The model is part of Kia’s broader strategy to achieve a fully electric product lineup in Europe by 2035.
