Kia Ushers In a New Era With the Launch of Its First 100% Electric Vehicle Built in Mexico

Kia México has officially unveiled the Kia EV3 2027, marking the South Korean brand’s first 100% electric vehicle to be built on Mexican soil.

This launch represents a major milestone in the company’s global electrification strategy, positioning the Pesquería plant in Nuevo León as a production hub for EVs destined for both the domestic and export markets.

The Kia EV3 2027 is the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) that Kia has assembled in Mexico. Production kicked off on August 4 at the Pesquería facility, which underwent a comprehensive modernization and retooling process to accommodate a dedicated line for this electric SUV.

The automaker has earmarked $649 million for the project, running through 2028. That investment covers not only plant upgrades but also supply chain enhancements, charging infrastructure, renewable energy, and water recycling initiatives tied to the industrial complex.

During the presentation, Andy Kim highlighted the significance of the launch for both the company and the country. “Every ‘Hecho en México‘ vehicle that rolls off our plant floor reflects the world-class talent, passion, and dedication of our Mexican workforce, demonstrating to the world what we can achieve together,” the executive stated.

Also of interest | Electromobility Investments Soar 146% in Mexico and Set a New Record in the Automotive Sector

EV3: SUV With Segment-Leading Range

The Kia EV3 2027 is a subcompact SUV measuring 4.3 meters in length with a 2.68-meter wheelbase. It is built on the 400-volt e-GMP electric platform—a dedicated EV architecture that optimizes interior space, improves energy efficiency, and integrates advanced safety and connectivity systems.

The EV3’s electric motor delivers 201 horsepower and 209 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to range, the model is offered in two configurations:

• EX Version: Equipped with a 58.3 kWh battery, achieving up to 436 kilometers of range under the WLTP cycle.
• SXL Version: Features an 81.4 kWh battery and offers up to 605 kilometers of range, making it the longest-range subcompact electric SUV available in Mexico for 2026, according to the brand.

On charging, the 58.3 kWh version can go from 10% to 80% in approximately 29 minutes, while the 81.4 kWh version does the same in roughly 31 minutes.

Kia Connect Arrives in Mexico for the First Time

The Kia EV3 2027 is the first model in the brand’s Mexican lineup to feature the Kia Connect platform—a connectivity suite that provides access to Over-The-Air (OTA) remote updates, Digital Key 2.0, and the new Kia One app.

The vehicle’s technology package includes a segmented panoramic display nearly 30 inches across (comprising three modules: a 12.3-inch cluster, a 5.3-inch climate control screen, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system).

The SXL version adds a Harman Kardon premium audio system with 8 speakers, ventilated and heated leather seats, a panoramic sliding sunroof, and LED projection cube headlights.

On the safety front, the EV3 incorporates Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and features a NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, making it compatible with Tesla‘s charging network.

The EV3’s design follows Kia‘s “Opposites United” philosophy, with geometric lines and clean surfaces that give it a bold, futuristic look. The Star Map daytime running lights and the signature Tiger Face grille reinforce its distinctive visual identity.

Economic Impact and Local Content

The $649 million investment in the Pesquería plant not only modernizes the facility but also delivers a significant boost to employment and the supply chain. The project is expected to generate 500 new direct jobs in 2026 and an additional 1,500 by 2030.

The Mexico-built EV3 will initially have about 27% local content, a figure that is expected to climb as more regional suppliers are brought into the program. High-value components, such as battery packs, will arrive from Asia initially and gradually shift to suppliers located closer to Pesquería.

The investment program also includes funding for public and semi-public charging infrastructure along key corridors in Mexico, tied to Kia‘s dealer network, as well as renewable energy and water recycling projects at the plant.

The Kia EV3 2027 is now available through Kia México‘s dealer network and via MercadoLibre—an unprecedented sales strategy for the brand. Launch prices are set at 689,700 Mexican pesos for the EX version and 767,700 pesos for the SXL version.

Pre-sales are already open, and the first Mexican-built units will begin exporting to the United States in the second half of 2026.

The company noted that electrified vehicles currently account for 25% of Kia‘s global sales, with a target of reaching 52% by 2030.

The design and technology of the Kia EV3 have already earned global recognition, including prestigious honors such as the iF Design Award 2025, the Red Dot Design Award 2025, and the 2025 World Car of the Year award.

The Ideal Space for Fleets in Latin America

The Latam Mobility 2026 Tour will arrive in Santiago, Chile, on August 25, bringing together experts and strategic players to further strengthen the sustainable mobility ecosystem in the region.

The tour will end in Mexico City on October 12 and 13, alongside the Climate Economy Forum, in a meeting that will bring together sector leaders to continue driving the transition toward more efficient, sustainable, low‑emission transportation systems in Latin America.

The transition is already underway. The Latam Mobility 2026 Tour will be the meeting point to accelerate decisions, connect key players, and collaboratively build sustainable mobility in Latin America.