Kia has set a new record for electric vehicle (EV) sales in July, driven by the strong performance of its latest model, the EV9. The automaker is seeing growing consumer interest in its electrified lineup, thanks to the introduction of new models like the EV9, which Kia believes will continue to enhance its brand appeal.
Kia is undergoing a significant brand transformation, which began with the introduction of a new logo and slogan in 2021. This rebranding is part of Kia’s “Plan S” strategy, aimed at positioning the company for future growth by focusing on a diverse range of electric vehicles tailored to specific market needs. The strategy is proving successful, with EV sales doubling in the US during the first half of 2024, and the momentum carrying into the second half of the year.
Last month, Kia set a record for EV sales in the US, significantly boosting its brand presence. Through July, the company reported a 99% increase in EV sales compared to the same period last year. The EV9, Kia’s new three-row electric SUV, has been a major contributor to this growth. Since its market debut late last year, the EV9 has sold 1,815 units in July alone, bringing the total to nearly 11,500 for the year. With a starting price of USD 54,900, the EV9 has been described as a “wake-up call” to competitors, and its success underscores Kia’s growing influence in the EV market.
Eric Watson, Kia America’s vice president of sales operations, expressed confidence in the company’s future, citing the EV9 and other electrified models like the Carnival MPV hybrid as key drivers of increased consumer interest. In addition to the EV9, Kia sold 1,547 EV6 models in July, totaling 12,488 for the year.
Kia’s first EV9s were assembled at the West Point, Georgia plant, marking a milestone as the first EV fully produced in the state. The US-made EV9 is eligible for a USD 7,500 federal tax credit, which is expected to further boost sales in the latter half of 2024.
Globally, Kia is expanding its EV offerings with the new EV3, which started pre-orders in Korea in June. The EV3, priced from USD 30,700 (KRW 42.08 million) in Korea and USD 42,300 (£32,995) in the UK, has already secured over 10,000 reservations in just 23 days. Additionally, Kia’s next-generation electric sedan, a potential rival to the Tesla Model 3, has been spotted testing in Europe and is expected to launch next year at around USD 35,000.