Kia Tasman Diesel Pickup Truck for Australia Goes Against EV Trend for Carmakers

As global automakers pivot to electrify their fleets, South Korea’s Kia Corp. has gone against the grain by unveiling its first pickup truck — a diesel model designed specifically for the Australian market. The move is testament to Australians’ abiding love for hardy off-roaders and is another sign of just how difficult it will be to wean the country off gas-guzzling vehicles.

Last month, Kia released a teaser trailer for the truck, with some of Australia’s most-loved sports stars — including tennis champion Ash Barty, around-the-world sailer Jessica Watson, AFL legend Buddy Franklin, Matilda’s goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold and cricketer Steve Waugh — arguing the vehicle should be named after them. In a follow-up trailer released Thursday, the ute’s rightful name was confirmed — the Kia Tasman.