THE most affordable electric model so far from Kia, the newly-launched EV3 hatchback, will cost from less than £33,000 and is available to pre-order from this week with first deliveries scheduled for later this year.

Like its' electrified siblings, the EV6 and EV9, the newcomer will be available in three trim levels - Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S - all with high levels of standard equipment and a choice of two power packs in the entry level Air model.

Fitted with the standard 58.3kWh battery pack, which provides up to 267 miles of range, the entry-level EV3 Air is priced at £32,995 while buyers opting for the longer-range, 81.4kWh version, providing up to 372 miles of electric travel, costs an extra £3,000.

The higher spec GT-Line and GT-Line S versions are only available with the larger 81.4kWh battery and are capable of driving up to 347 miles on a single charge. They're priced at £39,495 and £42,995 respectively.

Standard equipment across the range includes a 12.3-inch driver display plus a 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation system, reversing camera system and front and rear parking sensors, automatic aircon, auto headlights and wipers, folding electric door mirrors, smart cruise control, forward, rear and blind spot collision avoidance systems and highway driving assistance.

The EV3 is the latest battery electric vehicle to arrive as part of Kia's electrification strategy, which will see the brand launch 15 EVs by 2027, nine of which are destined for the UK.