The electric vehicle market is evolving at a breakneck pace, with legacy automakers and startups alike racing to launch new battery-powered models. Two of the most technically impressive and compelling options to recently hit the streets are the Kia EV6 and the Tesla Model 3.
As a digital technology expert and EV enthusiast, I‘ve long been fascinated by the cutting-edge engineering and computing power packed into these emissions-free machines. Let‘s take a deep dive into the hardware and software that makes the EV6 and Model 3 tick and see which vehicle comes out ahead.
Electric Motors and Batteries
At the heart of any EV are the electric motors that propel it down the road and the onboard battery pack that keeps the electrons flowing. The EV6 and Model 3 take slightly different approaches to the design and configuration of these core components.
The EV6 is built on Hyundai Motor Group‘s advanced Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which was purpose-built for battery electric vehicles. All EV6 models use a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) for propulsion, with the GT-Line Dual Motor e-AWD variant adding a second motor up front for all-wheel drive.
PMSMs are known for their high power density and efficiency, with the ability to deliver significant torque even at low speeds. In the EV6 GT-Line, the rear motor alone produces 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the front motor contributes an additional 95 hp and 188 lb-ft for a total system output of 320 hp and 446 lb-ft. This potent powertrain can vault the 4,661 pound EV6 from 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds.
The EV6‘s 800V architecture also enables ultrafast charging at up to 350kW, allowing the 77.4 kWh long range battery pack to be replenished from 10-80% in under 18 minutes. The E-GMP platform‘s multi-charging system is compatible with 400V and 800V chargers without the need for additional adapters.
Tesla‘s approach to electric propulsion in the Model 3 has been continually evolving over the vehicle‘s lifespan. The current lineup uses two different types of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Reluctance Motors (PMSRMs) depending on the trim level.
The rear-wheel drive Model 3 gets a single PMSRM that‘s more efficient than Tesla‘s outgoing induction motor design, enabling an impressive 272 miles of EPA estimated range. The dual-motor all-wheel drive versions of the Model 3 use PMSRMs at both axles but with some key differences. The front motor is optimized for efficiency while the rear unit prioritizes performance.
In the range-topping Performance model, this dual-motor setup cranks out 450 horsepower and 471 lb-ft of torque, enough to catapult the 4,072 pound sedan from 0-60 mph in a supercar-like 3.1 seconds. Those are hypercar acceleration numbers from a (relatively) mainstream EV.
Feeding those hungry motors is Tesla‘s latest 82 kWh battery pack, featuring their new 4680 cell design with a tabless architecture. These cells are not only cheaper to produce but also offer greater energy density and better thermal management than the previous 2170 format.
When plugged into one of Tesla‘s V3 Superchargers, the Model 3 Long Range can charge at up to 250kW and replenish 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. Tesla‘s vertical integration of batteries, motors and other components give it an edge in overall powertrain efficiency, enabling class-leading range.
The table below summarizes the key electric propulsion specs for both the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model 3:
| Spec | Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD | Tesla Model 3 Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 77.4 kWh | 82 kWh |
| EPA range | 274 miles | 315 miles |
| DC fast charging | 350kW, 10-80% in <18 min | 250kW, +200 miles in 15 min |
| Motors | Dual PMSM | Dual PMSRM |
| Power | 320 hp | 450 hp |
| Torque | 446 lb-ft | 471 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 sec | 3.1 sec |
Software and Digital Integration
The digital technology in electric vehicles goes far beyond the electric drivetrain to encompass the software and electronics platform that controls virtually every aspect of the car. From the central infotainment interface to the advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) to the myriad sensors and modules communicating on the vehicle‘s onboard network, modern EVs are essentially rolling computers.
The brains of the Kia EV6‘s electronics suite is its NVIDIA DRIVE platform, which combines high performance computing with an advanced software stack optimized for EVs. This system powers the seamless integration of the dual 12.3-inch TFT displays as well as the Augmented Reality heads-up display available on GT-Line trims.
All of the vehicle functions and settings are accessible via an intuitive touch interface as well as physical buttons, knobs and switches for heavily-used controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported along with natural language voice commands for hands-free operation.
The EV6 also features Kia‘s impressive Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) system, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering and automatic lane changes when the turn signal is activated. Using machine learning, HDA2 can also automatically adjust the vehicle speed based on the posted limits and road curvature. All of these ADAS functions are powered by an array of radar, ultrasonic and camera sensors processed by the NVIDIA hardware.
By comparison, Tesla has long been a leader (and lightning rod) when it comes to the sophisticated software powering its vehicles. The Model 3‘s 15-inch center touchscreen serves as a unified interface for virtually all of the car‘s functions, with most physical controls stripped away in favor of virtual buttons. This approach can be polarizing but there‘s no denying the technical impressiveness and flexibility it enables.
Over-the-air software updates have been a core pillar of Tesla ownership, with a steady stream of new features, tweaks, and refinements delivered to the vehicle on a regular basis. Everything from the air suspension settings to the steering wheel scroll wheel sensitivity can be adjusted via these remote updates. Tesla has also used OTA updates to improve range and performance by optimizing battery management and motor control strategies.
Infotainment in the Model 3 is equally cutting edge, with embedded Netflix, YouTube, Twitch and other streaming apps to keep occupants entertained. The arcade boasts an ever-growing library of AAA game titles that can be played using the actual steering wheel and pedals when parked. A karaoke mode with a library of songs and multi-device casting was also recently added.
But Tesla‘s real software trump card is its Autopilot suite of ADAS and semi-autonomous driving features. Even the base Model 3 includes Autopilot with lane keeping and adaptive cruise control. Adding the Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving packages brings more advanced capabilities like lane changes, Navigate on Autopilot, Smart Summon, and Autopark.
While not fully autonomous, Tesla‘s latest FSD beta can handle most driving tasks, including navigating city streets and making turns at intersections under human supervision. The system uses eight external cameras for 360 degrees of visibility along with radar and ultrasonic sensors processed by the in-house FSD Computer.
The table below summarizes how the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model 3 compare in terms of their digital cockpits:
| Feature | Kia EV6 | Tesla Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment hardware | NVIDIA DRIVE, dual 12.3" displays | 15" center touchscreen |
| Virtual assistant | Kia Voice Commands | Tesla Voice Commands |
| Streaming apps | No | Netflix, YouTube, Twitch, etc |
| OTA software updates | Limited | Extensive |
| Autonomous driving | HDA2: lane keep, adaptive cruise, auto lane change | Autopilot: lane keep, adaptive cruise, lane change, summon, FSD City Streets (beta) |
Charging and Connectivity
One of the unique digital technologies offered by the Kia EV6 is its vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, which essentially allows you to use the car as a giant mobile power bank. Through the included adapter that plugs into the outside charge port, you can power appliances, electronics, e-bikes, camping gear and more at up to 1.9kW.
There are also 120V power outlets located under the rear seats and in the cargo area to directly plug in devices and a 12V socket as well. This bi-directional charging capability means the EV6 can serve as a backup power source during an outage or as an emissions-free generator while off-grid.
The EV6 is also easy to keep topped up, with a 10.9 kW onboard charger enabling a full recharge in 7 hours and 10 minutes on 240V. At a public DC fast charger, the EV6 can be boosted from 10-80% in as little as 18 minutes thanks to its 800V charging architecture and 350kW peak charge rate.
Kia doesn‘t operate its own charging network like Tesla, instead partnering with ChargePoint, Electrify America and EVgo in the US. The Kia Access smartphone app allows you to find nearby charging stations, plan routes, check charging status, and precondition the cabin.
Tesla also uses an 11.5kW onboard charger in the Model 3, which equates to about 30 miles of range added per hour on a 240V outlet. They recommend hardwiring a Wall Connector home charging station, which can boost that rate up to 44 miles of range per hour.
But one of Tesla‘s greatest assets is its proprietary Supercharger network, which enables convenient long distance travel. With over 30,000 Superchargers worldwide and locations along major routes, it‘s easy to quickly juice up during a bathroom break and be on your way. V3 Superchargers can replenish up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes.
The Tesla mobile app is also a standout in terms of features and usability. It serves as your key to the car and allows you to remotely monitor charging, precondition the cabin, adjust charging limits, and schedule service. You can also use it to summon the vehicle out of tight parking spots and control various fun features like the whoopie cushion mode.
The table below summarizes the charging and connectivity features of the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model 3:
| Feature | Kia EV6 | Tesla Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Max DC charge rate | 350kW | 250kW |
| 10-80% fast charge time | 18 minutes | 20 minutes |
| Onboard charger | 10.9kW | 11.5kW |
| V2L power output | 1.9kW | No |
| Charging network | ChargePoint, Electrify America, EVgo | Tesla Supercharger |
| Phone as key | Yes | Yes |
| Smartphone app | Kia Access: charging, preconditioning, scheduling | Tesla: charging, preconditioning, summon, service |
Conclusion
The Kia EV6 and Tesla Model 3 represent two of the most technologically advanced and capable electric vehicles on the market today. Both pack an incredible amount of digital horsepower under the hood, with powerful electric drivetrains, cutting-edge software integration, and connected features.
The EV6 has the edge when it comes to charging speed, with its 800V system enabling a slightly faster 10-80% fast charge. It also offers unique capabilities like vehicle-to-load charging for powering external devices. However, the Model 3‘s access to Tesla‘s expansive and reliable Supercharger network along with its greater real world range make it the more roadtrip-friendly EV.
Inside the cabin, the two vehicles take different approaches to infotainment and digital interfaces. The EV6 features dual widescreen displays and a more traditional combination of touch controls and physical buttons. The Model 3‘s huge center screen is impressive and its software is unrivaled in terms of features and flexibility, but the lack of hard controls can be polarizing.
Tesla‘s biggest advantage is in the ADAS department, with its Autopilot system and Full Self-Driving package offering industry-leading semi-autonomous capabilities. The EV6‘s Highway Driving Assist is solid but can‘t match the lane changes, navigation, and city street driving possible with Tesla‘s latest software.
Ultimately, both EVs showcase the incredible potential of marrying electric propulsion with advanced electronics and computing power. The EV6 is an exceptionally well-rounded and capable electric crossover with some unique tricks up its sleeve. The Model 3 remains the range king and offers access to Tesla‘s unbeatable charging infrastructure and autonomous driving tech.
Deciding between the two comes down to your priorities and preferences as an EV owner. If you value having the fastest possible charging, powering external devices, and a more familiar cabin interface, the Kia EV6 is a phenomenal choice. If maximum range, the convenience of the Supercharger network, and exclusive tech like Autopilot are your top priorities, the Tesla Model 3 is still the benchmark.
Regardless of which one ends up in your garage, both the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model 3 represent major milestones in the electrification of personal transportation. As battery costs continue to fall, charging infrastructure proliferates, and onboard computing power accelerates, expect to see these already impressive EVs grow even more sophisticated and compelling with each passing model year. The EV arms race shows no signs of slowing down and that‘s a big win for consumers and the planet.
