KAIYI X-3 Pro EV

Model Overview

The KAIYI X3 Pro EV is an all-electric compact SUV rolled out by KAIYI Auto for global markets, known domestically in China as the KAIYI Xuanjie Pro EV. The model made its official debut on 1 September 2024 at the 3rd World Power Battery Conference as the cornerstone of KAIYI's global expansion strategy, joining the X7 iHD and e-Qute 02 in a multi-segment, multi-purpose, and multi-powertrain product lineup. Positioned as a pure electric compact SUV engineered simultaneously for both right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) markets, the X3 Pro EV highlights "high value-for-money, dependable range, and a class-above chassis" as its core selling propositions. As of May 2026, the vehicle has been exported to over 30 countries and regions across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, achieving notable breakthroughs in key markets such as Hong Kong, Pakistan, the UAE, and Malaysia.

Design Language

In terms of exterior styling, the KAIYI X3 Pro EV adopts a differentiated design approach compared to the domestic Xuanjie Pro EV to better match the aesthetic preferences of overseas markets. The international version drops the domestic model's black front grille in favour of a large, body-coloured closed-off front fascia, flanked by aggressive downward-sweeping "fang-style" light clusters that give the SUV a sharper, dedicated EV character. Over at the rear, it retains the full-width LED taillight cluster complemented by black lower bumper cladding for added visual depth. In terms of dimensions, the international version offers two distinct footprints: the RHD variant (for markets like Hong Kong and Malaysia) measures 4,266 mm long, 1,825 mm wide, and 1,653 mm tall, with a 2,632 mm wheelbase; while versions for selected other markets measure 4,400 mm long, 1,831 mm wide, and 1,646–1,653 mm tall, riding on the same 2,632 mm wheelbase. The generous 1,831 mm width stands out against segment rivals, providing a solid foundation for interior shoulder room. Inside, the cabin carries over the wraparound cockpit architecture of the domestic Xuanjie Pro EV, featuring a full digital instrument cluster and a prominent floating central touchscreen, delivering a clean and tech-focused ambiance.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the skin, all variants of the KAIYI X3 Pro EV are powered by a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering a maximum output of 120 kW (approx. 163 hp) and 280 Nm of peak torque. It completes the 0–50 km/h sprint in just 3.77 seconds, ensuring brisk and responsive acceleration in urban driving. While top speed figures vary slightly across market specifications, overall performance easily satisfies urban commutes and intercity journeys. Energy storage is handled by a standard 53.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack supplied by CATL across the range, utilising uniform cell specifications. In terms of range, it delivers a combined driving range of 401 km under the NEDC cycle, with certain markets rated at 401 km under the CLTC cycle—both figures being virtually identical. On the charging front, it supports DC fast charging of up to 120 kW, juicing from 20% or 30% to 80% state of charge in as fast as 30 minutes, significantly cutting downtime for commercial operations. The vehicle also comes equipped with V2X vehicle-to-load capability, allowing it to act as a mobile power bank for external electrical devices during outdoor activities.

Chassis and Handling

The chassis setup of the KAIYI X3 Pro EV is one of its major competitive edges over rivals in the same segment. The entire range adopts a four-wheel independent suspension layout featuring front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup, which is relatively rare among electric SUVs in this price bracket. The rear multi-link suspension clearly outperforms the torsion beam rear axles commonly seen in this class in terms of bump absorption and cornering composure, effectively soaking up road imperfections while providing a smoother ride for rear passengers. Sharing its platform architecture with the Chery Tiggo 5x, the chassis tuning leans towards comfort, paired with an electric power steering (EPS) setup that feels light and agile. The braking hardware consists of front ventilated discs and rear solid discs paired with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), riding on 215/60 R17 tyres. Regenerative braking is adjustable across three levels (Low, Medium, and High) to suit different driving preferences. For commercial applications such as Hong Kong EV taxis, a factory-fitted underbody battery protection plate is installed to enhance battery pack safety over uneven surfaces. Drive modes include Eco and Sport: Eco mode delivers smooth and energy-efficient power output, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response for more direct performance.

Cabin and Equipment

Inside the cabin, the primary interaction is anchored by a dual-screen layout comprising a digital instrument cluster and a large floating central touchscreen, with exact display dimensions varying across regional specs. The infotainment system supports voice control, Bluetooth telephony, smartphone connectivity, and in-car navigation. For comfort and convenience, the SUV is equipped with keyless entry with push-start button, Auto Hold, Electronic Parking Brake, panoramic sunroof, reverse camera, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Higher-spec variants further add active driver assistance features like Lane Departure Warning. The seats are finished in synthetic leather, with manually adjustable front seats and split-folding rear seats, allowing boot space to be flexibly expanded to meet diverse cargo needs. A standard audio system handles basic entertainment, while exterior appointments include LED headlamps and 17-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, select international variants come factory-fitted with an integrated dashcam, eliminating the need for aftermarket installation—a highly practical touch for commercial fleet operators.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of passive safety, the KAIYI X3 Pro EV comes standard across all variants with dual front airbags and front side airbags, with top-spec variants adding front and rear curtain airbags to bring the total airbag count to six. The body shell utilizes a high-strength cage design paired with a dedicated EV underbody battery protective structure, providing solid structural integrity during collisions and water-wading scenarios. Active safety is supported by an ADAS suite encompassing core features such as Lane Departure Warning, cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. Foundational active safety systems including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Hill-Start Assist are fitted as standard across the lineup. It should be noted that higher-level driver aids such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) are not standard across all trims, with equipment packages differing between markets. Overall, the safety kit of the X3 Pro EV primarily caters to Level 1 to Level 2 driver assistance, leaving room for further advancement in high-level intelligent driving features.

Market Performance and Reception

The market performance of the KAIYI X3 Pro EV demonstrates a clear pattern of achieving far greater success overseas than in its domestic market. Sales of its domestic counterpart, the Xuanjie Pro EV, remained lukewarm—recording just 159 units in July 2024 amid fierce competition from segment heavyweights like the BYD Yuan PLUS and GAC AION Y. In export markets, however, the vehicle has secured breakthroughs well ahead of expectations.

The most significant breakthrough occurred in Hong Kong. In April 2024, KAIYI Auto signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Hong Kong NEW ENERGY to supply 5,000 units of the KAIYI X3 Pro EV for use as local electric taxis, marking a pivotal milestone in KAIYI's RHD market expansion. Deployed in Hong Kong as a four-seater all-electric taxi, its indicative pricing sits under RM200,000. By May 2025, New Energy, the sole distributor of KAIYI electric taxis in Hong Kong, had signed a territory-wide charging infrastructure agreement with Smart Share's "Station No. 3", further solidifying the supporting charging ecosystem for electric taxis.

In the Pakistani market, the X3 Pro EV was introduced by Q-Autos with a standard retail price of RM7,490,000, alongside an early-bird promotional price of RM6,790,000 for the first 200 buyers. Customer deliveries for the first batch are scheduled to commence in mid-June 2026, with mass deliveries wrapping up by August. In Malaysia, local automotive importers have brought in RHD units, positioning and marketing the vehicle as an accessible compact electric SUV. In the UAE, the 2026 KAIYI X3 Pro petrol variant was unveiled via a new flagship showroom in Dubai; while the EV version is not yet the primary offering in the Middle East, the KAIYI brand has successfully established market presence through its ICE model. Furthermore, KAIYI Auto plans to launch the X3 Pro in Egypt in November 2026 via Complete Knock-Down (CKD) local assembly to further lower retail prices and target the low-to-middle income consumer segment.

Overall, leveraging its solid EV powertrain architecture (CATL LFP battery + 120 kW motor), class-above rear multi-link independent suspension, and well-aimed overseas market strategy, the KAIYI X3 Pro EV has successfully established an export path focused on "entering commercial and ride-hailing mobility markets through electrification". As a crucial strategic asset in KAIYI's pivot from intense domestic price competition to overseas growth, the X3 Pro EV has become a quintessential case study of how mid-sized Chinese independent carmakers can break into RHD markets, fleet mobility services, and emerging automotive sectors.