22 August 2022 – Kia revealed the 576-hp EV6 GT performance crossover for the first time in the USA last week at The Quail. The presence of the EV6 GT alongside supercars from around the world during the annual Monterey Car Week celebrations solidifies Kia’s place among the fastest and most sophisticated players.

“The EV6 GT ushers in the next chapter of the Plan S electrification story for Kia, elevating the EV6’s thrilling performance and effortless drivability beyond expectations,” said Steven Center, COO and Executive Vice President, Kia America, at the event last week. “Moving toward our tailpipe zero-emissions goals has never been as exhilarating.”

The arrival of the EV6 GT, the most powerful Kia production vehicle yet produced, marks a new era for electrification and the Kia brand. Based on the award-winning E-GMP modular platform, the EV6 GT elevates the discourse and expands the limits surrounding electric performance vehicles.

Electric performance dialled to a new level

The EV6 GT raises the threshold of performance for the already potent EV6 line-up, with a dual-motor e-AWD powertrain that sends power to all four wheels. An energy-dense 77.4-kWh Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese (80/10/10) battery pack serves a front-mounted 160kW motor, combined with a rear-mounted 270kW motor, to produce a combined power output of 430 kW and 740 Nm of torque.

The EV6 GT accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, and top speed rises to 258 km/h. In independent testing performed by leading third party AMCI, the EV6 GT out-accelerated a Ferrari Roma and Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder RWD.

The performance upgrades that define the EV6 GT also include a dedicated sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers and unique front suspension performance components. Dynamic damping control offers sporty handling and a balanced, comfortable ride. Traction and stability are enhanced by an electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) when cornering, by directing torque to the wheels with most grip. Larger ventilated front (15-inch) and rear (14.2) disc brakes with monoblock callipers are standard. Z-rated Goodyear Eagle F1 tires fitted with 21-inch alloy wheels are also standard on the EV6 GT.

The EV6 GT introduces GT Drive Mode, My Drive Mode, and Drift Mode, in addition to the Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow drive modes offered on other EV6 models. With the push of a button on the steering wheel, GT Drive Mode optimizes the performance of the EV6 GT’s motors, braking, steering, suspension, e-LSD, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems into their most dynamic settings.

Drivers can also create custom-tailored settings to suit individual driving preferences using My Drive Mode. For an even more controllable driving experience, selectable Drift Mode allows drivers to distribute power to the rear wheels. Two additional sounds unique to the EV6 GT join the roster of customisable Active Sound Design options.

The EV6 GT benefits from the ability to recharge at a rate similar to its eye-opening acceleration. It features 800V fast charging capabilities, which enables drivers to replenish 80 percent of battery capacity in under 18 minutes at 350kW chargers. The EV6 GT features a strong body structure that utilises 75% high-strength steel and ultra-high strength steel, as well as the world-first, mass-produced integrated drive axle (IDA) to enhance durability and handling, combining wheel bearings with the drive shaft to save weight.

‘Opposites United’ with a hint of neon

Engineered to compete with supercars and optimised for performance: 77.4 kWh battery with a 160kW front motor and a 270kW rear motor; “Drift Mode” to unlock increased capacity and performance, larger diameter disc brakes with quad-piston front callipers, stiffened chassis, quicker ratio steering, electronically adjustable controlled suspension, and Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (e-LSD)

Unique front and rear fasciae, neon accents, and 21-inch wheels set EV6 GT apart, with unique racing-inspired sport bucket seats and neon green dash accents

World-first 800V multi-charging architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging to recharge 10 to 80% state-of-charge in under 18 minutes

Imagined and brought to life by Kia’s design studios in Seoul, Frankfurt and Irvine, California, the styling of EV6 GT is a worldwide collaboration inspired by a design philosophy called “Opposites United,” which fuses cues and inspirations from the contrasts found in nature and everyday life. A long wheelbase and short overhangs maximize interior space with a flat floor; underfloor mounted battery placement enables a low centre of gravity for stability.

Subtle exterior and interior flourishes distinguish the EV6 GT. Front and rear fasciae unique to the GT emphasize vehicle width, and a rear aero spoiler and a diffuser complete the GT transformation. Bespoke 21-inch alloy wheels with neon-accented brake callipers communicate the high-performance credentials and stopping power of the EV6 GT.

Inside, vegan suede-trimmed, deeply bolstered performance front bucket seats are inscribed with the ‘GT’ moniker and green piping. Premium, EV6 GT-only touches adorn the cabin, including neon accents, lightweight front bucket seats, and a striped motif on the upper dashboard and front centre armrest. Ambient lighting across the door panels, centre console and dashboard delivers a soothing glow.

EV6 in a nutshell

Like all EV6 models, the EV6 GT is part of the Kia “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery-electric vehicles (BEV) per year and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs by 2027. The EV6 GT showcases the world-first patented multi-charging system supporting 400v and 800v DC charging, which works on DC chargers with speeds ranging from 50kW to 350kW.

Innovative Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality makes the EV6 GT a power source on wheels, to support everything from home improvement projects to camping and tailgating. Electricity flows from the high-energy battery to an Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), providing 1,900 watts of power to electrical appliances, devices, tools, and recreational equipment.

The EV6 offers a wide array of standard and available technology features, and a roster of standard and available features that enhance safety and convenience. As part of Kia’s overall commitment to safety, the EV6 has a comprehensive list of 20 standard active Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

The ground-breaking Kia EV6 has exceeded all expectations, winning not only the German Premium Car of the Year award in October 2021, but also the 2022 European Car of the Year award, and creating global demand that has seen order lists of thousands of units in several markets across the world. The EV6 is still under consideration for a South African introduction, and while a local launch date has not been set, the available number of units will be small initially.

“We sense a healthy appetite not only for electric vehicles as a whole in South Africa, but also for the EV6 specifically,” says Gary Scott, CEO, Kia South Africa, highlighting that there are many factors influencing the decision, not least of which a consistent supply. “We are mindful that we must bring in products to cement Kia’s EV leadership position in the local motorist’s mind, but it will not make that impact as a niche passion project. People must not only desire the product, it must also be attainable.”

Commenting on how the introduction of other new energy vehicles affects Kia’s existing brand positioning, Scott cautions that Kia is not abandoning the value-based proposition the brand is renowned for in South Africa. “Kia is not a luxury brand,” he says. “We’re an alternative to luxury, with an undeniable blend of quality, design and technology. We will look to launch EV6 in limited volumes, and to introduce further models that will establish a more diverse powertrain offering across varying segments for private, commercial and fleet use.”