Summary
– Kia EV9, a three-row electric SUV, is now being assembled in America at the West Point plant in Georgia, ensuring it qualifies for the federal tax credit
– Hyundai and Kia are sticking to their EV production promises, showing double-digit percentage growth in sales despite industry challenges
– The EV9 is available in the US in different trims and configurations, with two battery capacities offering ranges of 230 to 304 miles
– The Georgia plant is part of the growing Battery Belt in the Southeastern US and will create thousands of clean energy jobs
– With local battery manufacturing expected to begin in Georgia, the EV9 is anticipated to qualify initially for partial tax credit and then for the full tax credit by 2025
Article
H2: Local Assembly of the Kia EV9 in Georgia Boosts Qualification for Tax Credit and American Manufacturing
Kia’s decision to assemble the three-row Kia EV9 in Georgia rather than Korea has significant implications, including the vehicle now being eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Previously, the EV9 had to be leased in order for customers to benefit from this tax credit, but now that it’s being built locally in the U.S., it joins the ranks of American-made three-row electric SUVs such as the Rivian R1S and Tesla Model X. This move is expected to soften the rather hefty sticker price of the EV9 and make it more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
H2: Hyundai and Kia’s Commitment to EV Manufacturing
Despite challenges faced by many U.S. automakers in the electric vehicle sector, Hyundai and Kia have remained steadfast in their commitment to EV manufacturing. Their double-digit percentage growth in EV sales shows that their strategy is working, especially in a market where other automakers are facing delays and setbacks. By continuing to deliver on their promises, Hyundai and Kia are staying ahead of the curve and positioning themselves as leaders in the EV market.
H2: Kia’s Milestone Announcement and Partnership with Local Officials
The announcement of Kia’s new manufacturing plant in Georgia was met with praise from local officials, including U.S. Senator for Georgia Jon Ossoff. Ossoff commended Kia for achieving this milestone in less than two years since the passing of made-in-America manufacturing incentives. This partnership between Kia and Georgia officials highlights the importance of federal incentives and American manufacturing in boosting the state’s economy and creating jobs in the clean energy sector.
H2: Kia EV9 Features and Pricing
The Kia EV9 is available in the U.S. in five trims and offers six or seven-seat configurations. Customers can choose from two battery capacities, with the larger battery providing up to 304 miles of range on the rear-wheel-drive version. Early reviews of the EV9 praise its range and performance, but its high sticker price has been a point of contention. However, with the local battery manufacturing expected to come online in Georgia, the EV9 is likely to qualify for partial tax credits initially and full tax credits in 2025.
H2: Hyundai Motor Group’s Investment in American Manufacturing
The Hyundai Motor Group’s Metaplant America in Georgia is a dedicated EV and battery manufacturing facility that is part of the growing Battery Belt in the Southeastern U.S. This facility, along with other investments in Georgia totaling $18 billion, is expected to create 11,000 clean energy jobs in the state. Kia’s West Point plant, where the EV9 is manufactured, already produces other popular SUV models for export to various countries. This investment in American manufacturing demonstrates a long-term commitment to sustainability and economic growth.
In conclusion, the local assembly of the Kia EV9 in Georgia marks a significant milestone for Kia, American manufacturing, and the EV market as a whole. By qualifying for federal tax credits and partnering with local officials, Kia is setting a precedent for other automakers to follow. With continued investment in clean energy projects and battery manufacturing, Kia and Hyundai are well-positioned to lead the way in the transition to electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions.
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