According to Thekoreancarblog, Kia Chairman, Mr. Ho-sung Song, recently announced plans to produce dedicated electric vehicles in 4 major markets to expand electric vehicle production. In addition to the EV9 produced at the Hwaseong plant in Korea, other mid-size electric models will be introduced in China from next year, while other small and mid-size electric models will be produced in India from 2025.
Furthermore, the Korean automaker also announced two pickup truck models, which will use electric vehicle technology and internal combustion engines. The pure electric pickup truck model will be developed for the North American market, while the pickup truck model using traditional combustion engines will be developed for emerging markets.
The Kia pickup truck prototype was recently spotted on a test drive, believed to be the Tasman. Based on the prototype test drive photos, it can be seen that the Kia Tasman also has a large ground clearance, a square-shaped front grille, and vertically placed LED daytime running lights inspired by the Mohave. In addition, it seems that the vehicle is using rather small wheels.
There is not much information available on the powertrain of this pickup truck model. Previously, Drive magazine revealed that Kia Australia is preparing to launch a new pickup truck model. The Korean automaker claims that its new pickup truck model will be a formidable competitor to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. It is known that Kia has also purchased Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger models for testing purposes.
Kia Australia has also confirmed with dealers that the new pickup truck model will be introduced in Australia with a diesel powertrain, most likely the turbocharged 4-cylinder CRDi 2.2L diesel engine that has been used for many years in the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. The 3.0L turbo-diesel engine from the Mohave is also a possibility. It is worth noting that a pure electric version of the pickup truck model is predicted to be introduced in later stages.
The upcoming Kia pickup truck model is said to be developed on a new ladder-frame platform, sharing with the Kia Mohave SUV sold in Korea.
Hopefully, in the future, we will have more information and images about Kia’s all-new pickup truck model.
Trang Nguyễn (Forum.autodaily.vn)
