Kia EV sales hit highest ever in May as EV9 rollout ramps up

With its first electric three-row SUV rolling out in the US, Kia just hit a new all-time monthly EV sales record in May. The EV sales growth led to Kia’s second-best-ever US sales month.

Kia EV sales hit a new high in May as new EV9 rolls out

After launching the EV9 in the US late last year, the large electric SUV is quickly gaining traction. Kia sold 2,187 EV9s in May, up 39% month-over-month, leading to a new monthly EV sales record.

Kia’s overall EV sales grew 127%, reaching 7,197, a new record. The EV6, Kia’s first dedicated electric car, also set a new May sales record with 2,260 models sold. Kia has sold 7,766 EV9 and 8,770 EV6 models through the first five months of the year, respectively.

The achievement comes after Kia made history last week with its first EV9 rolling off the assembly line at its West Point, GA, plant. Kia’s EV9 was the first EV assembled from start to finish in the Peach State as the automaker ramps up output.

With EV9 production kicking off in the US, Kia expects the momentum to continue. Kia officials have already confirmed the US-built EV9 will qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit.

Starting under $55,000, Kia calls the EV9 an industry wake-up call. Kia’s EV9 is even longer than the Telluride at 197.2″, but it’s roughly the same height and width. It also includes 42.8″ of rear passenger legroom, more than luxury rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and three-row Range Rover P400.

The tech-loaded interior features Kia’s next-gen ccNC infotainment with dual 12.3″ screens and Android Auto/ Google CarPlay support.

Kia’s EV9 is seeing strong demand in other overseas markets. The company expects EV9 sales to reach 50,000 globally within the first year on the market.

After the first 11 months, EV9 exports already account for over 81% of Kia’s total sales volume. Through the first four months of the year, the EV9 accounted for 93% of Kia’s exports.

Electrek’s Take

Kia’s record EV sales month comes as sister company Hyundai is also seeing strong demand for its electric vehicles.

Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 had another record sales performance in May, with 4,449 models sold. Based on Hyundai’s dedicated E-GMP platform, Kia’s (and Hyundai’s) EVs, including the EV6 and EV9, offer long-range and fast charging capabilities.

The Korean automaker’s early commitment to EVs is paying off, with strong demand for both new and older electric models.

In an exclusive interview with Electrek, Hyundai America CEO Randy Parker said the automaker is doubling down on its EV strategy as it looks to separate itself from rivals. So far, it seems to be paying off.

Have you been eyeing Kia’s electric vehicles? Now may be the best time to start shopping, with Kia offering up to $12,000 off select EV9 and EV6 models. You can use our links below to view deals on Kia’s EVs at a dealer near you.