DETROIT — An all new battery-powered people-hauling Kia SUV was introduced Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show, and expected to be manufactured right here in Georgia.
Kia's new EV9 is a little longer than the automaker's popular gas-powered Telluride, and it can seat up to seven people in three rows of seats.
The EV9 comes with two powertrain options, a standard battery and rear-wheel-drive, and an optional larger battery that's expected to go 300 miles on a charge. All-wheel-drive also is an option.
Kia says the dual-motor GT line comes with 379 horsepower and can go from zero to 60 mph in five seconds. The battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes at a fast-charging station, Kia says.
The EV9 will hit U.S. showrooms late this year, and it's expected to be built at the company's plant in West Point, Georgia, starting next year. The automaker says it's reviewing requirements and doesn't know yet whether it will qualify for the $7,500 tax credit.
The EV9's price will be announced closer to the date it goes on sale.