Summary
– Kia America sold 5,000 all-electric cars in April, a record volume and share of total sales
– Kia’s E-GMP-based electric car sales in April included 2,051 EV6, 1,572 EV9, and an undisclosed number of Niro EVs
– Year-to-date, Kia has sold almost 11,700 E-GMP-based all-electric cars, a 152% increase from the previous year
– Kia plans to begin local production of the Kia EV9 in Georgia in May 2024
– The company aims to secure the full federal tax credit for the Kia EV9 model by 2025
Article
**Kia Achieves Record Sales in Electric Cars**
For the first time in history, Kia America reported the sale of roughly 5,000 all-electric cars in a single month. This accomplishment comes in the midst of a slight decrease in overall vehicle sales, with 65,754 vehicles sold in the United States in April, down 3.6% year-over-year. Despite this overall drop, Kia managed to more than double its all-electric car sales last month, reaching a record volume and share. This surge in electric vehicle sales marks a significant milestone for the South Korean manufacturer.
**Kia’s Strong Start in 2024**
Kia started 2024 with impressive growth in all-electric car sales in the U.S. The lineup includes three models: the E-GMP-based EV6 and EV9, as well as the Niro EV, which is also available with other powertrain types. In April, Kia’s E-GMP-based electric car sales saw a 192% increase year over year, accounting for 5.5% of the brand’s total volume. This increase was driven by the performance of individual models – the EV6 and EV9, which both saw significant sales growth. Including the Niro EV, total Kia EV sales in April soared by 144% year-over-year, reaching an estimated 5,000 units.
**Impressive Growth Year-to-Date**
So far in 2024, Kia has sold nearly 11,700 E-GMP-based all-electric cars, marking a 152% increase over the previous year. This growth can be attributed to the introduction of the EV9 model, in addition to the existing EV6. When combined with the sales of the Kia Niro EV, estimated at over 4,500 units, total EV sales likely exceeded 16,000 units, accounting for 6.5% of the brand’s total volume. This steady growth in electric vehicle sales positions Kia as a key player in the EV market.
**Continued Success and Future Plans**
Kia’s Vice President of Sales Operations, Eric Watson, expressed optimism about the company’s performance, citing best-ever EV and SUV sales in the first quarter of the year. With new models like the Sorento, Carnival, and K5 set to hit the market, Kia aims to attract new customers and retain brand loyalists by offering a wide range of vehicle choices, including ICE, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric models. Additionally, Kia plans to commence local production of the Kia EV9 in Georgia in May 2024, with expectations to secure the full federal tax credit for the model by 2025.
**Yearly Performance Comparison**
For reference, in 2023, Kia sold over 32,000 all-electric cars in the U.S., accounting for 4.1% of the brand’s total sales volume. However, the manufacturer does not disclose sales figures for other plug-in models, as they are reported alongside conventional or non-rechargeable hybrid versions. Kia’s focus on expanding its electric vehicle lineup and achieving record sales speaks to the company’s commitment to sustainable transportation and innovation in the automotive industry.
**The Future of Electric Cars and Kia’s Role**
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles, Kia’s success in the EV market highlights the brand’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. With a strong start in 2024 and plans for further expansion and production of electric models, Kia is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation options. By prioritizing electric vehicle sales and investing in new technologies, Kia is paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in the automotive sector.
Read the full article here
