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A number of months in the past, I mentioned whether the Kia EV3 could be the EV almost definitely to “fill the hole” of the cheaper Tesla mannequin (aka Mannequin 2 or Mannequin C) that individuals 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 stand out to me. And it’s not simply me. (A fast caveat, the Kia EV3 is predicted to have a beginning worth 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 “Best Car Below €40,000” award on the prestigious 2024 Golden Steering Wheel Awards. Should you’re not acquainted, the Golden Steering Wheel Awards are extremely regarded automotive awards in Germany. The EV3 additionally just lately received the “Car of the Year for 2024” award from Electrifying.com and the “Small SUV/Crossover of the Year” on the Information UK Motor Awards. This little crossover is a success, and it’s going to be a giant a part of the EV trade in coming years — I feel.
Launching only one month in the past, that’s already three awards for the EV3.
Here’s more on probably 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 knowledgeable critiques and are thought of one of the vital necessary prizes within the German automotive trade. 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 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 different phrases, it is a prestigious award for a purpose, the EV3 was put by way of its paces, and it’s certain to be a shopper 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 PICTUREcommented. “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 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 supply the mannequin at large scales, however we are going to see.
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