Kia recently celebrated its inaugural EV Day last week, where the Korean brand revealed its electrification plans for the future as well as displayed three new concept EV prototypes namely EV3, EV4, and EV5. After having established its presence in the battery mobility space with premium markets like EV6 and EV9.
Now, Kia intends to expand its EV lineup globally with more mass market products. Among the three concepts showcased, the EV3 is grabbing attention among Indian publications. The reason being its supposed proximity to Kia Seltos– a high volume-selling model in India.
Kia EV3: Exterior
Earlier Kia had confirmed the launch of a heavily localised EV in India by 2025 which will be assembled in the company’s plant in Anantapur, and it is strongly believed that it could be based on the EV3 concept. Dimensionally, it is very similar to Seltos which is a very popular compact SUV in India. If a production version of the EV3 was to land on our shores it could very well be called Seltos EV.
Like the flagship Kia EVs, the EV3 concept is based on the Hyundai Group’s dedicated EV architecture— E-GMP. It shares common design elements with EV9 such as a slightly different interpretation of the ‘Digital Tiger’ face with a sealed-off nose flanked by slim vertical LED headlights and a chunky front bumper.
At the rear, it gets a similar connected LED taillamp setup as the current crop of Kia cars. However, the C-pillar has a much sharper rake, giving it a crossover appeal. That said, the overall profile remains boxy with upright A and B pillars and a flat roof line.
Kia EV3: Interior, expected features
Inside, the EV3 concept gets a minimalist cabin, with almost no physical controls on the dashboard. Kia has carried forward the twin-screen setup featuring a digital instrument console and a touchscreen infotainment system from its current lineup. Featuring a floating arm rest, it gets massive storage space in the centre console.
The entire cabin wears a pleasant green shade complemented with beige inserts. The second row shows glimpses of a high floor, folding centre armrest and space for two occupants.
Kia hasn’t revealed anything regarding the powertrain of the EV3 but it is expected to feature a battery with a capacity ranging between 50-70 kWh with both single and dual-motor setups, with power outputs expected to range from 200 bhp to 300 bhp. Expect the new EV3 to offer V2L and V2V functionalities and DC fast charging capabilities up to 175 kW.
