Kia has reaffirmed its commitment to developing an all-electric version of the highly anticipated Tasman ute, though the exact timeline for its release remains uncertain. This confirmation comes as the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, with utes being a key segment in the Australian market.
- Christo Valentyn, Kia South Africa's head of marketing, stated that "an electric one is coming" when discussing the Tasman.
- The electric Tasman is expected to feature:
- A high-capacity battery of over 100 kWh
- Range exceeding 400 km
Launch Timeline
- The Tasman will initially debut in Australia with turbo-diesel power in the first half of 2025.
Market Position
An electric Tasman would compete with:
- Upcoming LDV eTerron 9
- Potential electric utes from other manufacturers
Strategic Importance
- Aligns with Kia's broader electrification strategy
- Could help Kia meet emissions targets under Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (effective 2025)
Kia Australia's Stance
Roland Rivero, Kia Australia's product planning general manager, indicated openness to various powertrain options for the Tasman over its lifecycle, suggesting flexibility in the model's future development.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Kia's development of an electric Tasman demonstrates the brand's commitment to electrification in all vehicle segments, including the traditionally diesel-dominated ute market.
