KIAhas released the first teaser images of its upcoming EV3, the brand's new compact EV SUV.

The images show bold, geometric and robust lines of the EV3's exterior design such as a boxy rear as well as the EV3's Star Map lighting, which Kia says give the vehicle a futuristic identity.

The EV3's design stems from the same principles used in Kia's flagship EV9 SUV.

Aiming to broaden the accessibility of electric mobility following the introduction of the Kia EV6 and EV9 models, the EV3 is a compact yet well-equipped EV SUV, the car maker adds.

The EV3 will go on sale later this year following the car's global world premiere on May 23.