Kia revealed its global new logo and brand relaunch in January and has now changed its name in America from Kia Motors America to Kia America. In addition, as part of its Plan S, or Plan Shift, Kia America has announced the debut of its first advanced-platform electric vehicle, the EV6.
Plan S is an ambitious $25 billion transformation strategy that includes sustainable mobility, delivery vehicles and personal transport solutions, as well as developing Kia’s Mobility as a Service strategy. The plan will see the launch of 11 EVs on a global basis by 2026, with the EV6 set to go on sale in the U.S. in early 2022.
“On a global scale, our brand is sharpening its identity, and defining a sustainable, purposeful strategy within existing, new and to-be-developed vehicle segments, as well as larger efforts we are now ready to pursue,” said Sean Yoon, president and CEO of Kia America and Kia North America. “Today’s announcement signals that Kia in the U.S. is fully aligned with Kia Corporation’s global strategy and primed for continued success.”
Included in Kia America is Kia’s manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, as well as its headquarters in California. Kia North America incorporates the brand’s presence in Canada and Mexico, as well as its manufacturing facility in Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
The Kia EV6 crossover is the brand’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle and incorporates the E-GMP modular platform that will allow the brand to expand its EV portfolio across multiple vehicle segments. The architecture provides for a long wheelbase and wide stance and has the 114.2-inch wheelbase equivalent to the Telluride SUV. The Telluride is made at Kia’s West Point, Georgia, facility.
The EV platform also boasts ultra-fast charging times and delivers up to an estimated 300-miles of all-electric range, vehicle-to-load functionality and a flat-floor interior that utilizes sustainable materials throughout the cabin.
“The EV6 marks a new and transformative era in Kia electrification,” said Yoon. “This innovative crossover leverages the many benefits of its advanced platform to offer a level of technological excitement and convenience that will provide a superb ownership experience.”
The EV6 First Edition will be available through advanced registration starting June 3, with just 1,500 units being produced.
