- Kia began production of its EV9 electric SUV at its assembly plant in Georgia this week, marking the first production electric vehicle to be built in the state.
- Whilst the EV9 is already being produced in South Korea, this extra production will remove import tariffs for the EV9 and make it eligible for the USA’s $7,500 EV tax rebate, making the car an even more attractive option for American customers.
- The EV9 has already seen high sales in the states, with 7,766 units sold since the start of the year.
Kia’s Georgia factory begins an electric switch
South-Korean made EV9s have already been available in the US, but without eligibility for the $7,500 tax credit. Kia itself has been matching this reduction, to make the entry level price of the EV9 more competitive against rivals. All USA-produced EV9 trim levels will now be able to take advantage of the tax credits, which are available on SUVs up to a value of $80,000. With this tax credit, the entry-level Kia EV9 Light RWD model will come down to a price of $48,995, which brings it fairly close to the starting price of the $42,600 EV6. The South Korea-made EV6 isn’t eligible for any tax credit, but we’ll have to wait and see if Kia decides to bring even more EV production to the US.
SeungKyu Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, commented:
“Today’s launch of the Kia EV9 in Georgia is the latest example of Kia’s commitment to the U.S. market and the state of Georgia… Through Plan S, Kia is poised to be a leader in the e-mobility sector for years to come. Having achieved prestigious accolades such as World Car of the Year, World EV of the Year, and North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, EV9 will be in excellent hands with the team members at Kia Georgia and their track record for assembling award-winning, world-renowned products speaks for itself.”
