Uncertain Import Tariffs, Kia Delays EV4 Launch And Electric Pickup For American Markets

JAKARTA - Kia's plan to bring the latest electric vehicles on the United States market has shifted again. The South Korean manufacturer has postponed the launch of electric pickup trucks and EV4 electric sedans due to uncertainty in the country's ongoing import rate policy.

Kia had previously confirmed the new model in early 2025, and both were prepared as important lines to strengthen the presence of brands in the US electric vehicle segment. However, changes in policy direction regarding component rates and imported vehicles make the launch schedule uncertain.

In the United States, Kia has actually marketed several electrification models such as Niro, EV6, and EV9. Even so, the market there has not yet acquired smaller EV models such as EV5 and EV3 which are marketed in other regions.

At the Los Angeles automotive exhibition, American Kia Marketing Vice President Russell Wager explained that tariff uncertainty is a major obstacle. Wager emphasized that the company actually has many options for electric pickup.

We have a great electric vehicle portfolio that is sold in many other places in the world that we can choose from. We just need resolution, and we also need a consumer market here that wants it," Wager said as quoted by Drive, Saturday, November 29.

The statement indicates that Kia's electric car launch strategy in the United States is now in the waiting phase. Competitors, such as Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Rivian, and Tesla have marketed electric pickup trucks even though the volume is not yet large.

Meanwhile, Kia seemed to choose to take more care. This situation reminded Ram's decision to cancel the production of the electricity version of their 1500 pickup truck.

Wager also responded to the cost pressure that arises from changes in tariffs. According to him, price increases are not a step that can be taken continuously in response.

"Others have raised prices. The point is, we can't do this forever. If the tariff is not completed or the tariff is too high, we have to make a business decision. Regarding spare parts rates and import rates, one day we can't absorb everything," said Wanger.