Kia EV3: 300 Mile Small Electric SUV with Big AI Integration

Kia has just revealed the final version of its EV3 small electric SUV, and it’s bringing something new to the table: AI. Initially introduced as a concept last year, the EV3 is set to launch in South Korea this July, with a European debut later in the year. While a US release is confirmed, the exact timing is still under wraps.

Voice-Activated AI Assistant

The standout feature of the EV3 is its voice-activated AI assistant, a first for Kia’s production EVs. This assistant, which made its debut in the Kia K4, is built off a heavily modified version of ChatGPT. According to Pablo Martinez Masip, Kia’s head of customer experience design, the assistant will help users plan trips, find entertainment, and more. It will first be available in Korea, with a European rollout to follow.

Range and Performance

The EV3 boasts an impressive estimated range of 600km (about 373 miles) on the European WLTP system. However, the US EPA estimate is expected to be slightly lower. The long-range model comes with an 81.4kWh battery, while a standard model will feature a 58.3kWh battery. A sportier GT-line version is also in the works. The EV3 can go from 0 to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds, thanks to its powertrain based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform.

Interior and Tech

Inside, the EV3 resembles the larger EV9, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, a 5-inch panel for HVAC controls, and a 12-inch heads-up display. It also includes premium streaming apps courtesy of LG’s webOS-based auto platform, and you can even download themed dashboards, like NBA-inspired ones.

Design and Practicality

The EV3’s design draws heavily from the boxy aesthetic of the EV9, providing ample space for five passengers. There’s room to store personal items like backpacks, and it even has a sliding table suitable for a laptop. The front trunk (frunk) offers 25 liters (1,526 cubic inches) of storage space, which, while small, is consistent with Kia’s other models.