Kia’s first three-row electric SUV, the EV9, has garnered significant attention and strong demand since its launch. Following this success, Kia has confirmed the launch of a high-performance GT version of the EV9 in January, boasting “enormous power” and a host of other upgrades.
The flagship EV9 was introduced in Korea in June last year, with over 1,334 units sold in its first month and another 1,251 in July. The EV9’s US debut saw prices starting at $54,900, positioning it as a competitive offering in the electric SUV market. Kia has reported selling over 4,000 EV9 units in the US in the first three months of 2024 alone.
Kia has teased the high-performance GT trim since the EV9’s debut, with CEO Ho-Sung Song confirming its launch date during the company’s CEO Investor Day presentation. The EV9 GT will follow the success of Kia’s first high-performance electric vehicle, the EV6 GT, which boasts 576 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.
The EV9 GT will feature an AWD, high-output dual-motor system for quicker acceleration, along with a reinforced suspension and electronic braking for enhanced stability at high speeds. Kia’s CEO reiterated the company’s commitment to affordable electric vehicles, aiming to become an EV leader by launching six new mass EV models in major markets by the end of the decade.
As part of this strategy, Kia has already launched the EV5 in China, priced at around $20,000, and is set to introduce the EV3 by the end of this year, followed by the EV4 next year. Kia’s EV lineup will also include two specific models for emerging markets, including the Carens EV. By 2026, Kia aims to sell 587,000 mass-market EVs, representing 66% of its total sales.
Despite lower-than-expected EV demand in the short term, Kia remains steadfast in its long-term forecast, aiming to sell 1.6 million EVs by 2030. As part of its strategic shift, Kia will focus on smaller, more affordable EV models, canceling two large-size EVs to strengthen its hybrid lineup and accelerate the introduction of new EV models into key markets.
