SAUDI ARABIA : Kia is giving the world a glimpse of its forthcoming electric car, the EV3. This compact SUV will slot in below the EV6 in terms of size and is scheduled for a global debut on May 23rd. International sales are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2024, though details on a UAE launch haven't been confirmed yet.

Similar in size to the Seltos, the EV3 utilizes a more affordable version of the Kia-Hyundai electric platform. This 400-volt architecture prioritizes cost-efficiency, resulting in slower charging times compared to the 800-volt systems found in the EV9 and EV6.

The production model stays true to the concept car unveiled last year in South Korea, drawing design cues from Kia's flagship EV9 SUV. Marketed as a feature-rich electric SUV, it promises advanced technology and impressive performance. While the exterior design largely reflects the concept, the interior boasts some key changes. The production version features a conventional flat-bottom steering wheel instead of the concept's oval design. Additionally, the dashboard incorporates physical buttons, pedals, traditional air vents, and door panels – elements absent from the concept car.

Kia plans to expand the EV3 lineup beyond the standard models with a high-performance G3 variant, reflecting their strategy of offering such options across their new electric car portfolio.