- Kia planned a high-performance version of its stylish EV9 3-row electric SUV
- However, the automaker has now delayed the project indefinitely
A year ago, Kia used the Los Angeles Auto Show to reveal a high-powered version of its aggressively styled EV9 electric SUV. The EV9 GT was to boast 501 horsepower and haul three rows of passengers from zero to 60 in just 4.3 seconds.
Was.
As workers prepare to open the 2025 edition of the LA show, Kia has quietly shelved the project.
Car and Driver had the report first, with a Kia spokesperson telling the magazine the GT model has been “delayed until further notice” due to “changing market conditions.”
It’s the second time in recent months that Kia has delayed the launch of an electric vehicle (EV). The company paused plans to bring its compact EV4 to the U.S. in October.
EV sales have dropped in the U.S. following the end of a $7,500 federal tax rebate for buyers. However, they remain very strong globally. A recent report from the International Energy Agency found that 25% of car sales worldwide could be electric by the end of 2025.
