Kia Enters the Truck Market with the Tasman
Kia, the corporate cousin of Hyundai, is finally joining the pickup truck market with its new offering, the Tasman. While it hasn’t been confirmed for the U.S. market yet, given the success of Hyundai’s Santa Cruz and Kia’s extensive lineup in America, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Tasman make its way stateside. However, there is one significant obstacle in the form of the Chicken Tax that Kia would have to overcome if it doesn’t manufacture the truck in the U.S.
The Tasman will be a global pickup aimed at markets in South Korea, the Middle East, and other regions. Although Kia hasn’t revealed many details about the truck, rumors suggest that it will be equipped with a diesel powertrain in Australia. It is also expected to offer all-wheel or four-wheel drive options and multiple cab configurations.
While this is an exciting step for Kia, the automaker has even more in store for the future. Kia has promised to introduce two electric pickups in the next few years. The Tasman will be positioned as a smaller C-segment truck, similar to the Ford Ranger. As for Kia’s electric models, their size is yet to be determined, but it’s likely that one of them will be close in size to the Tasman.
Electric trucks have often been criticized for their limited range when towing and hauling heavy loads. However, a smaller electric truck like the Tasman could find its sweet spot in urban areas. With short delivery routes, light payloads, and infrequent towing, electric vehicles are an excellent fit for city environments, especially in Europe. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if Kia’s electric pickups also cater to this market.
In terms of production, Kia has already started manufacturing its EV9 model in South Korea. However, the company has invested in its U.S. facilities to prepare for the production of the SUV at its Georgia plant. On the other hand, EV6 production remains in South Korea, which means it won’t be eligible for federal EV tax credits in the U.S. Nonetheless, leasing options are available for interested buyers.
Overall, Kia’s entry into the pickup truck market with the Tasman marks a significant milestone for the automaker. While details about the truck are still scarce, it’s clear that Kia has recognized the potential in this segment and is making strides to meet customer demand. With the promise of future electric pickups, Kia is positioning itself to be a formidable player in the evolving automotive landscape.
