On July 16th, Kia hosted ‘The Kia EV3 Tech Day’ in Seoul, showcasing cutting-edge electrification technologies designed to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) user experience.
The event highlighted the features and superior electrification technologies of Kia’s new compact SUV, the Kia EV3. Through presentations from the EV3’s development team, attendees gained insights into the advanced technologies integrated into the EV3, with additional exhibits displaying key components.
Innovations in Electrification for Enhanced EV Experience
Kia introduced several advanced technologies at the event:
1. i-Pedal 3.0:
• Allows acceleration, deceleration, and stopping with just the accelerator pedal.
• Operable in all regenerative braking stages, unlike previous versions which worked only in the strongest braking mode.
• Features a memory function to retain the previous settings even after the vehicle is restarted.
• Includes a reverse driving function that can be toggled on or off according to driver preference.
2. Smart Regenerative System 3.0:
• Integrates autonomous driving technology to automatically adjust the deceleration level based on sensor data and navigation information.
• Provides a more economical driving experience by reducing the need to manually operate the brake pedal.
• Uses a variety of navigation-based data to adjust to various driving conditions, such as speed cameras, curves, and roundabouts.
3. THIN HVAC:
• The world’s first ultra-compact heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system that maximizes cabin space.
• Reduces the HVAC system’s size by 33%, creating more legroom for passengers.
• Increases airflow while reducing noise and power consumption.
4. Next-Generation Thermal Management System:
• Enhances heating performance and efficiency by utilizing both external air and drivetrain heat sources simultaneously.
• Reduces the number of components by 44% and weight by 4.5%, leading to better efficiency and performance.
5. New Electric Power Control:
• Simplifies the power control configuration from a 4-stage to a 3-stage system.
• Allows the high-voltage battery to be used in a ‘POWER ON’ state for functions like heating, cooling, and interior V2L without needing the vehicle to be in the ‘READY’ state.
Optimal Driving Performance in a Compact SUV
The EV3 is designed for superior driving performance with several key features:
1. Driving Range Guide:
• Assists drivers in achieving optimal energy efficiency by displaying the maximum and minimum possible driving ranges based on driving style.
2. Aerodynamic Efficiency:
• Achieves a drag coefficient of 0.27, one of the best in its class, through various design optimizations like improved headlamp and bumper curvature and optimized wheel shapes.
3. 81.4 kWh Fourth-Generation Battery:
• Provides a driving range of 501 km on a single charge (long-range model, 17-inch wheels).
• Features improved energy density and faster rapid charging times.
4. Enhanced Ride and Handling (R&H) Performance:
• Includes a frequency-sensitive valve to reduce road vibrations and a hydro G-bushing for superior shock absorption.
• Uses structural reinforcements for improved handling and stability.
5. Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) Performance:
• Minimizes road noise and wind noise transmission into the cabin through various enhancements like frame stay brackets, dynamic dampers, and reinforced sound insulation materials.
Conclusion
The Kia EV3 Tech Day successfully showcased the company’s cutting-edge electrification technologies. With the introduction of features like i-Pedal 3.0, Smart Regenerative System 3.0, and THIN HVAC, Kia continues to push the boundaries in the EV market, offering enhanced performance, efficiency, and user convenience. The EV3 stands as a testament to Kia’s ongoing innovation and dedication to creating beloved and advanced electric vehicles.
