Kia released details of its upcoming compact electric SUV, the EV3, which promises to provide fast-charging capability to go along with range of up to 600 kilometres.

Kia says the model introduces world-first technologies that will make the transition easier from an internal combustion engine car to an electric vehicle.

“Kia’s development team was determined to create an all-electric SUV that would raise the bar for what’s expected of a compact electric model. Achieving this meant drawing up an entirely new set of parameters, such as intelligent regenerative braking and the ability to power or charge external devices, such as camping equipment, enabling customers to enjoy a range of lifestyle and driving features previously unavailable in this sector,” the automaker said in a news release.

The EV3 will feature i-Pedal 3.0 and Smart Regenerative 3.0 systems, which Kia says will give drivers more flexibility and control by allowing them to separate the level of regenerative braking from full stopping control function. Drivers will also be able to use full one-pedal driving in all regenerative braking modes.

The Smart Regenerative System 3.0 technology features a digital co-pilot that can scan the road ahead and respond to situations with fast reactions, and integrates autonomous driving technology with regenerative braking.

As an example of the system’s smarts, Kia says when the EV3 approaches a tight turn or a curve in the road, a speed limit decrease, a speed bump or a roundabout, the vehicle will automatically slow down to an appropriate speed, and thus making for a more relaxed, efficient and safe drive.

Kia’s previous Smart Regenerative System could slow the car down to 9 km/h, but this latest system can bring to a complete stop.

The EV3 Long Range model features Kia’s fourth-generation 81.4-kWh battery that has an approximately 22 per cent higher energy density than the Kia Niro EV, which shares the same 400V architecture, resulting in the all-electric range of 600 kilometres. Standard models get a 58.3-kWh battery. Both versions get an electric motor with 201 hp.

A Driving Range Guide acts as an on-board efficiency coach displays the maximum and minimum driving ranges achievable depending on driving style and an estimated range based on past driving. The driver will get a green gauge when the vehicle is being driven efficiently.

Kia says charging from 10 to 80 per cent can be achieved in 31 minutes in the Long Range model, when using 350-kW fast charging.

Multiple variants are planned, including front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models as well as a sportier GT model.

North America is expected to get the EV3 in 2026, according to multiple media reports. Canadian market details, such as price, will be announced at a future date.