Kia to start EV9 manufacturing within the US by Could, expects $7,500 EV tax credit score eligibility by 2025

Kia’s first three-row electrical SUV is off to a very good begin. Nonetheless, Kia will speed up EV9 momentum with plans to start US manufacturing by Could. Kia expects the EV9 will qualify for the total $7,500 EV tax credit score by early subsequent yr.

Kia to kick off US EV9 manufacturing in Could

After launching the EV9 within the US late final yr, Kia has handed over 3,839 fashions within the US. Beginning beneath $55,000, Kia calls its electrical household transfer an “business wake-up name.”

Regardless of the sturdy begin, Kia expects the momentum to select up. Kia at the moment builds the EV9 in Korea however expects to maneuver manufacturing to the US by the top of Could.

Kia America’s head of company communications, James Bell, informed Nikkei that transferring EV9 manufacturing to its West Level, GA plant will allow it to qualify for part of the EV tax credit score. The EV9 is predicted to qualify for the total $7,500 tax credit score by early 2025.

The EV9’s batteries are nonetheless made in South Korea and China, however Kia will start sourcing from its EV battery plant in Savannah, Georgia.

Bell stated the power can have devoted EV and battery meeting sections. Manufacturing is predicted to begin by the top of this yr or early 2025.

“We’re off to a very good begin,” Bell stated. Nonetheless, “we really feel possibly a bit of bit restricted due to the incentives,” he added.

Bell stated US patrons considering, “Perhaps it’s time for an EV for my household,” mechanically look towards Tesla. Kia desires “to get the re-assessment, primarily based on the virtues of the machine.”

When requested if Kia is fearful about cheaper EVs from China, Bell stated the automaker welcomes the brand new competitors.

“If something, I believe it’s going to be useful to have lower cost [cars] as a result of it should get extra folks to expertise electrical autos,” Bell defined.

Within the meantime, Kia is providing huge incentives to assist offset the EV tax credit score. Kia is providing $5,000 in buyer money on all 2024 EV9 trims. With that included, the EV9 begins at simply $51,395.

In the event you’re fascinated with Kia’s new three-row electrical SUV, we may also help you get began buying as we speak. You may use our hyperlink to seek out nice offers on the 2024 Kia EV9 at a supplier close to you.