Join day by day information updates from CleanTechnica on e mail. Or observe us on Google Information!
A number of months in the past, I mentioned whether or not the Kia EV3 could possibly be the EV most certainly to “fill the outlet” of the cheaper Tesla mannequin (aka Mannequin 2 or Mannequin C) that folks have been ready for for years. Naturally, if we glance outdoors the US, BYD is operating away with the trophy so far as low-cost however compelling EVs goes, however from legacy automakers, the EV3 continues to face out to me. And it’s not simply me. (A fast caveat, the Kia EV3 is predicted to have a beginning value within the mid-$30,000s. That’s nearer to Mannequin 3 or Mannequin Y pricing than a hypothetical Mannequin 2/C. So, the mannequin isn’t actually within the territory we initially hoped, but it surely’s nonetheless a cost-competitive and extremely compelling automobile.)
Kia shared yesterday that the EV3 simply received the “Finest Automotive Beneath €40,000” award on the prestigious 2024 Golden Steering Wheel Awards. For those who’re not acquainted, the Golden Steering Wheel Awards are extremely regarded automotive awards in Germany. The EV3 additionally not too long ago received the “Automotive of the Yr for 2024” award from Electrifying.com and the “Small SUV/Crossover of the Yr” on the Information UK Motor Awards. This little crossover is successful, and it’s going to be an enormous a part of the EV business in coming years — I feel.
Launching only one month in the past, that’s already three awards for the EV3.
Right here’s extra on essentially the most prestigious of the trio: “Launched in 1976, and offered by AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG, the Golden Steering Wheel Awards mix a public vote with professional opinions and are thought-about one of the vital necessary prizes within the German automotive business. With a segment-leading vary of as much as 605 km and an revolutionary inside design that optimises area, consolation and accessibility, the EV3 impressed the judges and reviewers, to return out on high in a extremely aggressive section. […]
“A complete of 78 automobiles have been nominated by two editorial groups in seven classes, earlier than readers chosen the finalists. A distinguished 18-member jury put the finalists via in depth testing on the DEKRA Lausitzring race circuit, in Schipkau, Germany. DEKRA analysed the driving force help techniques, whereas the editorial staff at Laptop Bild evaluated every automobile’s competence in connectivity.”
In different phrases, this can be a prestigious award for a motive, the EV3 was put via its paces, and it’s positive to be a client hit.
“A golden begin for the brand new Kia EV3! It affords numerous options and stable ranges at a lovely value — a convincing provide for individuals who worth value and efficiency,” Robin Hornig, chief editor of AUTO BILD, commented. “And it’s a secure funding, as a result of Kia affords a 7-year producer’s guarantee on the EV3, which covers each the automobile and the traction battery.”
How a lot potential does the EV3 have? What number of gross sales can Kia obtain — in Germany, within the US, and globally? Is that this an EV that may lastly compete with the volumes of the Tesla Mannequin 3 and Mannequin Y? I’m a bit hesitant to belief Kia’s need to provide the mannequin at huge scales, however we are going to see.
Chip in a number of {dollars} a month to assist assist impartial cleantech protection that helps to speed up the cleantech revolution!
Have a tip for CleanTechnica? Need to promote? Need to recommend a visitor for our CleanTech Discuss podcast? Contact us right here.
Join our day by day e-newsletter for 15 new cleantech tales a day. Or join our weekly one if day by day is simply too frequent.
CleanTechnica makes use of affiliate hyperlinks. See our coverage right here.
CleanTechnica’s Remark Coverage
