Kia is venturing into the competitive landscape of the U.S. market. pickup market.
The South Korean car company has verified that it will introduce an " electrified pickup, leaving the possibility open for it to be either a hybrid or an all-electric model.
During the investor day presentation in Seoul on Wednesday, CEO Ho-Sung Song revealed this information at Kia’s event, though he didn’t specify an exact timeline for its release date.
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Song stated that the revolutionary vehicle will offer "top-tier interior space and cargo capacity" and will be constructed using a new electric vehicle platform, though he didn't specify its size.
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Prototypes of an electric Kia EV9 SUV Converted into a pickup truck models have been seen undergoing testing. Currently, the EV9 is produced at a newly established facility in Georgia, making this location highly probable for the production of the upcoming pickup model as well. This decision could be influenced by recent import duties on foreign-made vehicles along with the longstanding "chicken tax" imposed on imported pickups. Additionally, this setup ensures potential qualification for ongoing federal tax breaks associated with electric vehicle acquisitions upon its release.
Song mentioned that it is tailored for both urban and outdoor living and will feature improved "off-road capabilities and driving performance."
Read Also: Ford’s CEO Says ‘Game-Changing’ Affordable Electric Pickup Will Compete with Chinese EVs
Kia aims to sell 90,000 units per year. If this were a mid-size model, it would have ranked as the third-highest selling vehicle in its class last year, following the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado. Within the compact category, it would have placed second, sandwiched between the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Kia has recently entered the pickup market with its inaugural model released this year. The Tasman is a mid-size vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine; however, it won’t be available in the U.S., instead being marketed in countries such as South Korea and Australia, along with various developing markets.
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