Is The Kia EV3 The EV We’ve Been Waiting For? Golden Steering Wheel Team Says Yes – CleanTechnica

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Several months ago, I discussed whether the Kia EV3 could be the EV most likely to “fill the hole” of the cheaper Tesla model (aka Model 2 or Model C) that people have been waiting for for years. Naturally, if we look outside the US, BYD is running away with the trophy as far as cheap but compelling EVs goes, but from legacy automakers, the EV3 continues to stand out to me. And it’s not just me. (A quick caveat, the Kia EV3 is expected to have a starting price in the mid-$30,000s. That’s closer to Model 3 or Model Y pricing than a hypothetical Model 2/C. So, the model isn’t really in the territory we initially hoped, but it’s still a cost-competitive and highly compelling vehicle.)

Kia shared yesterday that the EV3 just won the “Best Car Below €40,000” award at the prestigious 2024 Golden Steering Wheel Awards. If you’re not familiar, the Golden Steering Wheel Awards are highly regarded automotive awards in Germany. The EV3 also recently won the “Car of the Year for 2024” award from Electrifying.com and the “Small SUV/Crossover of the Year” at the News UK Motor Awards. This little crossover is a hit, and it’s going to be a big part of the EV industry in coming years — I think.

Launching just one month ago, that’s already three awards for the EV3.

Here’s more on the most prestigious of the trio: “Launched in 1976, and presented by AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG, the Golden Steering Wheel Awards combine a public vote with expert reviews and are considered one of the most important prizes in the German automotive industry. With a segment-leading range of up to 605 km and an innovative interior design that optimises space, comfort and accessibility, the EV3 impressed the judges and reviewers, to come out on top in a highly competitive segment. […]

“A total of 78 vehicles were nominated by two editorial teams in seven categories, before readers selected the finalists. A prominent 18-member jury put the finalists through extensive testing at the DEKRA Lausitzring race circuit, in Schipkau, Germany. DEKRA analysed the driver assistance systems, while the editorial team at Computer Bild evaluated each vehicle’s competence in connectivity.”

In other words, this is a prestigious award for a reason, the EV3 was put through its paces, and it is sure to be a consumer hit.

“A golden start for the new Kia EV3! It offers a lot of features and solid ranges at an attractive price — a convincing offer for those who value price and performance,” Robin Hornig, chief editor of AUTO BILD, commented. “And it’s a safe investment, because Kia offers a 7-year manufacturer’s warranty on the EV3, which covers both the vehicle and the traction battery.”

How much potential does the EV3 have? How many sales can Kia achieve — in Germany, in the US, and globally? Is this an EV that can finally compete with the volumes of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y? I’m a bit hesitant to trust Kia’s desire to produce the model at massive scales, but we will see.