Kia made headlines last year with the introduction of its first-ever pickup truck, the Tasman, a mid-size vehicle primarily aimed at competing with the Ford Ranger in Australia, Korea, and emerging markets. Despite the Tasman not being slated for the American market, Kia has announced plans to bring a new electric pickup truck to U.S. shores. During an investor day presentation, the brand revealed that this upcoming truck will be based on a new EV platform “designed for both urban and outdoor use.”
Key Details of Kia’s Electric Pickup Truck
While specific details are currently limited, Kia’s CEO Ho Sung Song had recently expressed the brand’s intention to introduce a mid-sized pickup truck to America. This statement, combined with the news that the Tasman won’t be available in the U.S., suggests that the electric truck will serve as Kia’s equivalent offering in the American market.
Features and Capabilities
Kia claims that the new electric truck will boast:
- Best-in-class interior and cargo space
- A robust towing system
- Off-road capabilities
- Advanced infotainment and safety features
The brand is targeting annual sales of 90,000 units for this model. For context, Toyota sold 192,813 Tacomas in 2024, while the Ford F-150 Lightning moved 33,510 units during the same period.
Developing a unique vehicle on an electric platform will require more effort than adapting the existing Tasman platform, but it aligns with Kia’s strategy to be a significant player in various segments of the U.S. EV market. The decision to create a distinct model for the U.S. market underscores Kia’s commitment to understanding and catering to local consumer preferences and market demands.
