Global World Premiere of New Kia EV3 Coming May 23

Kia announced the coming global world premiere of its exciting new all-electric Kia EV3, to be live-streamed on Kia Worldwide’s YouTube channel on May 23 at 19:00 Korea Standard Time (10:00 GMT / 6:00 EDT).

The teaser images of the EV3 reveal a design that commands attention through its bold geometry and robust structure, setting a striking contrast against conventional car design. The Kia EV3 images spotlight the EV3’s dynamic styling, characterized by its boxy rear fenders and assertive tailgate, projecting an image of power and durability. Further distinguishing the EV3 is its signature Star Map lighting.

Inspired by Kia’s flagship EV9 SUV, the EV3’s design is deeply rooted in Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. This approach underscores Kia’s commitment to creating a diverse yet cohesive model range where each vehicle is empowered to showcase its unique character.

Introducing the Kia EV3 marks a pivotal moment in the EV industry, underlining Kia’s commitment to expanding price accessibility. Following the success of the multi-award-winning EV6 and EV9 models, the EV3 is poised to make a significant impact as a compact electric SUV. It combines outstanding performance with innovative technologies.

With its comprehensive equipment package and compact size, the EV3 is designed to extend Kia’s electric vehicle offerings, bringing the high-end customer experience associated with the brand’s flagship models to the compact, affordable electric SUV market.

The new Kia EV3 will go on sale later this year. The EV3 is projected to have a starting price of approximately $35,000, making it an attractive low-cost option. Unlike the EV6 and EV9, which feature a more advanced 800-volt charging system, the EV3 will utilize a 400-volt charging architecture. This means the EV3 will have a slower charging speed than the other models.

The 2025 Kia EV3, poised to make a groundbreaking entry into the low-cost EV market later this year, will ride on the same acclaimed E-GMP architecture that currently underpins siblings such as the Kia EV6 and EV9, in addition to the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6. This platform is celebrated for its adaptable design, allowing for a wide range of electric vehicles in size, capabilities, and price points. The Kia EV3 is expected to offer an impressive combination of efficiency, range, and driving dynamics.

Kia Stood Out at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition

South Korea’s Kia took the spotlight at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in Beijing, China, featuring the Kia electric EV5 model, among others. The show naturally evolved into an overwhelmingly electric vehicle exhibition. Little interest still exists in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in the Asian market. This is especially true in China, the world’s largest automotive market and current global leader in the EV industry.

Kia and Hyundai’s Strong Q1 EV sales

Kia Corporation is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, and operates under the broad umbrella of its parent company, Hyundai Motor Company. In the United States, Hyundai’s overall EV sales for the first quarter (Q1) of 2024 grew an astounding 62% compared to Q1 2023. Kia’s EV sales grew 88% compared to Q1 2023, proving that the popularity of Hyundai and Kia electric models is going through the roof so far this year in America.

In the first quarter of 2024, EV sales growth slowed in the U.S., while EV sales continued to grow. The slowdown in growth was due to many factors, and among those factors were high vehicle prices.

For this reason, the Kia EV3 will be a welcome addition at approximately $35,000. If it qualifies for the point-of-sale federal EV tax credit, that could bring the price to as low as $27,500.

Kia, a Part of America’s Low-Cost EV Segment

Car and Driver reported The Cheapest Electric Cars & SUVs for 2024, which included the Kia Niro EV Wind at $40,975, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 SE Standard Range at $38,650, and Hyundai Kona Electric SE at $34,050, among other brands.

Other Low-Cost EV Models

Tesla plans to start production of its new affordable vehicles in “early 2025 if not late this year.” Chevy’s 2023 electric Bolt was among the lowest-cost models available this year. GM decided not to offer a 2024 model, but it plans for the Bolt to return in 2025.

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