With the launch of its first three-series electric SUV in the U.S., Kia set a new all-time monthly EV sales record in May
The increase in EV sales contributed to Kia's second best sales month in the US.
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Kia's electric vehicle sales reached a new record in May as the new EV9 hit the market.
After the launch of the EV9 in the US at the end of last year, the large electric SUV is quickly gaining ground. Kia sold 2,187 EV9 in May, marking a 39% month‑over‑month increase, setting a new monthly record for electric vehicle sales.
Kia’s total electric vehicle (EV) sales rose 127% to 7,197, setting a new record. The EV6, Kia’s first dedicated electric car , also set a new sales record in May with 2,260 units. In the first five months of the year, Kia sold 7,766 EV9 units and 8,770 EV6 units, respectively.
This achievement was realized after Kia made history last week, with its first EV9 coming off the assembly line at its plant in West Point, GA. Kia's EV9 was the first electric vehicle to be fully assembled in the Peach State, as the automaker ramps up its production.
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With the start of EV9 production in the US, Kia expects its momentum to continue. Kia officials have already confirmed that the EV9, built in the US, will meet the requirements for the federal tax credit of $7,500.
With a starting price from $55,000, Kia describes the EV9 as a refresh for the industry. Kia's EV9 is larger than the Telluride with a length of 197.2", while having roughly the same height and width. It also offers legroom for rear passengers of 42.8", which is larger than that of luxury competitors such as the Cadillac Escalade and the three‑row Range Rover P400.
The tech-rich interior features Kia's next-generation ccNC infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch screens and support for Android Auto and Google CarPlay.
Kia's EV9 is experiencing strong demand in international markets. The company predicts that global EV9 sales will reach 50.000 within the first year of launch.
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After the first 11 months, EV9 exports already represent over 81% of Kia's total sales volume. In the first four months of the year, EV9 contributed 93% of Kia's exports.
Source: electrek
