09:29 06-03-2026

Kia postpones EV6 GT launch in U.S. as sales decline and tariffs impact costs

Kia has indefinitely delayed the EV6 GT electric vehicle launch in the U.S., citing shifting market conditions, sales declines after tax credit loss, and import tariffs. Learn about the performance specs and reasons behind this decision.

Kia has postponed the launch of the high-performance EV6 GT electric vehicle in the U.S. market indefinitely. Company representatives cited shifting market conditions as the reason for this decision. Notably, the most powerful version of the model has already been removed from Kia's American online configurator, though other EV6 variants will continue to be sold without changes.

One key factor is declining sales across the entire EV6 lineup. Demand for the model dropped significantly after the $7,500 federal tax credit was discontinued. In the first two months of 2026, only 1,140 EV6 units were sold in the U.S.—more than half the number sold during the same period last year.

The EV6 GT also faces additional cost challenges. This version is imported from South Korea and is subject to a 15% import tariff, while other EV6 variants are assembled at Kia's Georgia plant and avoid such duties.

Previously, the EV6 GT stood out for its impressive performance. The electric vehicle features an 84 kWh battery and dual electric motors that deliver up to 641 horsepower in Launch Mode, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.4 seconds.