When Kia Initially, when a new pickup was announced for the American market, many people doubted it would be the Tasman. There were speculations suggesting it could instead be a Kia-branded variant of Hyundai’s partnership with GM, or possibly a pick-up version based on the Hyundai Santa Cruz similar to the Sportage.
The Korean automaker However, Kia has officially revealed its intentions to launch an electric truck into the North American market.
At the 2025 Kia CEO Shareholder Meeting The company verified that they will be producing an electric pickup, constructed using a novelEV platform. This development comes after previous statements regarding an electrified truck were made by a Kia representative at a press event organized by How-to Geek’s affiliated website. CarBuzz .
Nevertheless, the truck that Kia has just verified for the North American market is an entirely distinct model, not the electric Tasman that was previously mentioned.
Strong Towing Capabilities and Robust Off-Road Handling
Kia hasn’t disclosed particular information regarding the new platform just yet, but it’s intended to accommodate both city driving and outdoor adventures. Additionally, the company recognized the different requirements within the pickup segment, covering options for vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) as well. electric vehicles .
Although the Tasman will be launched in South Korea, Australia, and various growing markets, North America is set to get an entirely different model.
Kia has not released comprehensive information regarding its forthcoming electric pickup for the North American market; however, they aim to sell around 90,000 units each year and secure a 7% share of the market. This vehicle is anticipated to provide strong towing capabilities , exceptional off-road capabilities, leading interior and storage capacity, along with advanced entertainment and safety technologies.
Joining this competitive market won't be simple for Kia, as they will encounter competitors such as the Rivian R1T , the Tesla Cybertruck, and the forthcoming Scout Terra.
Anticipated to Be Produced in the USA
Although the press release doesn’t mention this detail, it’s probable that the new electric Kia pickup will be manufactured in the US to avoid the impact of the Chicken Tax and recent vehicle import duties, which complicate bringing trucks into the country. Despite these challenges, Ineos continues to move ahead with their Grenadier Quartermaster model.
Considering that Kia is already producing the EV6 at its facility in West Point, Georgia, it’s quite likely that the electric pickup truck will also be put together at this location.
Kia hasn't specified when its new pickup vehicle will launch in the U.S., but it’s reasonable to anticipate its arrival over the coming half-decade. During the 2025 Kia CEO Investor Day, which centered around the firm's strategic objectives up until 2030, fewer specifics were shared about this model. More information should come forth as updates occur.
Source: Kia