Kia Unveils High-Performance EV9 GT with Native Tesla Charging and Virtual Shifting

Kia's Bold Step into Electric Vehicles at the LA Auto Show

Kia made headlines at the latest LA Auto Show by unveiling two revamped electric vehicles, illustrating the manufacturer's confidence in the expanding electric vehicle (EV) market. The new line of EVs emphasizes performance and innovation, reaffirming Kia's commitment to electrification.

Unveiling the 2025 Kia EV9 GT

The spotlight was on the 2025 Kia EV9 GT, a performance-oriented variant of the popular three-row SUV. Building on its successful predecessor, the new GT model boasts impressive enhancements, including:

• Powerful Performance: The EV9 GT is equipped with over 500 horsepower, significantly more than the 379 horsepower found in the 2024 model. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
• Electronically Controlled Suspension: This first-of-its-kind suspension feature in a Kia aids in delivering a smoother ride tailored to the selected drive mode.
• Virtual Gear Shifting: A novel addition mimics the feeling of a traditional automatic transmission, providing an engaging driving experience.

Design Elements and Features

The EV9 GT includes **high-performance 285/45R-21 Continental tires** and distinctive **neon green brake calipers**. Unique lighting accents and digital graphics are incorporated, offering drivers a visually stimulating experience.

Charging Infrastructure: The New NACS Port

One of the most significant advancements with the 2025 EV9 GT is its native Tesla / North American Charging System (NACS) port. This groundbreaking feature allows the vehicle to access over 15,000 Supercharger stations without needing an adapter. This establishes Kia's EVs as strong competitors in the market, particularly with the recent announcement from Hyundai regarding its Ioniq 5.

Refreshed 2025 Kia EV6 Crossover

Kia also announced updates to its flagship electric vehicle, the 2025 EV6. The new crossover boasts a variety of upgrades:

• Larger Battery Options: The standard model sees an increase from a 58 kWh to a 63 kWh battery, with an available 84 kWh pack that provides up to 319 miles of range in rear-wheel drive configuration.
• New Charging Port Location: Relocating the charging port to the left rear fender enhances compatibility with Tesla Superchargers.

Production and Tax Credit Eligibility

The EV6 will be manufactured at the Hyundai and Kia Metaplant in Georgia, potentially qualifying it for the $7,500 tax credit while it is still available. However, the EV9 GT will be produced in South Korea, aligning it with high-performance models like the EV6 GT.

Conclusion: What's Next for Kia?

Kia's recent announcements at the LA Auto Show indicate a robust approach to the growing electric vehicle market. With enhanced specifications and a strategic focus on charging accessibility, the upcoming 2025 EV9 GT and refreshed EV6 are poised to make a notable impact. Pricing information is expected to be released closer to their respective production timelines.

By staying ahead of industry trends, Kia not only enhances its product lineup but also solidifies its reputation as a leader in the electric vehicle space.