Kia has officially confirmed plans to introduce a fully electric pickup truck to the North American market, though it’s not the controversial Tasman model. The announcement came during the 2025 Kia CEO Investor Day event, where some preliminary details were shared.
Key Details of Kia’s Electric Pickup
The new electric truck will be built on a dedicated EV platform designed for “both urban and outdoor use.” According to CEO Ho Sung Song, the vehicle is expected to compete in the midsize segment against models like the Toyota Tacoma and Jeep Gladiator, rather than entering the full-size segment dominated by the Ford F-150.
Features and Capabilities
Kia describes the upcoming pickup as an “innovative model” that will offer segment-leading space for passengers and cargo. The electric truck is touted to have genuine off-road capabilities and a “robust towing system.” Additionally, the company promises “advanced infotainment and safety features” will be included.
Market Expectations and Production Plans
In the mid-to-long term, Kia aims to sell 90,000 units of this electric pickup annually, targeting a 7-percent market share. While the company hasn’t specified the production location, industry logic suggests it will be manufactured at a U.S.-based plant to avoid tariffs and the 25-percent Chicken tax.
Potential production sites include:
- Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia, which has been producing the Ioniq 5 and is slated to produce an undisclosed Kia model in 2026
- Kia Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG)
Both options are plausible given their focus on EV production. The HMGMA, in particular, was conceived primarily for electric vehicles and has an initial annual production capacity of 300,000 units.
Tasman Model Fate
In contrast, the Tasman model is not destined for the U.S. market. Instead, it will be available in Korea, Australia, and emerging markets, with Kia targeting annual sales of 80,000 units and a six-percent market share.
This development marks Kia’s entry into the competitive electric pickup truck segment in North America, positioning itself against established rivals with a vehicle that promises a blend of space, capability, and technology.
