We already spied the future KIA EREV Pickup truck and today we want to share with you new details. Captured for the first time as a test mule in California, KIA started testing the chassis and powertrain technologies while the design is still unfinished so that’s why this “vehicle” looks like a Kia EV9 in the front and Hyundai Santa Cruz at the back.
Codenamed as TV1, Kia’s first-ever EREV pickup will take a few years to reach the market. Using a new drivetrain system to be previewed by Hyundai Santa Fe and Genesis GV70 in 2026, Kia’s pickup will use an EREV system.
Understanding EREV: How It Differs from Traditional Hybrids
EREVs share a similar configuration with the hybrid cars currently available on the market, featuring an internal combustion engine (ICE), an electric motor, and a battery pack. However, the key difference lies in the role each component plays in the vehicle’s operation.
In traditional hybrid vehicles, the electric motor and battery pack serve as auxiliary systems, with the ICE primarily responsible for generating the driving force. In contrast, EREVs shift the balance of power significantly. The internal combustion engine’s role is reduced to that of a generator, recharging the battery pack, while the electric motor becomes the primary source of propulsion.
This shift in function means that while driving an EREV, the ICE can activate to recharge the battery pack, eliminating the need for frequent stops at charging stations. This capability allows EREVs to achieve driving ranges exceeding 1000 kilometers—more than double that of many current electric vehicles. Additionally, because EREVs require smaller battery packs compared to fully electric vehicles, the overall cost of these vehicles can be reduced, making them more accessible to a broader range of consumers.
KIA EV Pickup looks like Frankenstein vehicle, with parts borrowed from the EV9 or Hyundai Santa Cruz
Performance and Utility
Kia’s EREV pickup is not just about good looks and comfort; it also packs a powerful punch with an all-wheel drive system, allowing it to handle various terrains and weather conditions. The estimated range of the EREV system is very competitive, aiming to outdo rivals by offering over 550 miles (900km), making it suitable for both urban commuting and rural adventures.
The payload and towing capacity are set to meet if not exceed, the standards set by existing pickups in the market. This makes it a viable option not only for personal use but also for commercial purposes, appealing to a broad audience.
Market Impact and Consumer Expectations
The launch of Kia’s EREV pickup is poised to disrupt the traditional pickup market, traditionally dominated by American manufacturers. It adds a significant player to the burgeoning segment of electric trucks, where companies like Tesla, Rivian, and Ford are already making waves.
Consumer expectations are high, and Kia seems ready to meet them with this innovative offering. Potential buyers are looking forward to a blend of reliability, performance, and advanced technology, all packaged in a vehicle that aligns with their environmental values.
Conclusion
Kia’s electric pickup truck represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the automotive industry. With its cutting-edge technology, impressive performance specs, and commitment to sustainability, Kia is not just catching up with the trend but is setting itself up as a leader in the electric revolution. As more details emerge, the industry and consumers alike are eager to see how this vehicle will perform in the competitive market. The success of Kia’s EV pickup could very well dictate the future direction of the automotive sector, steering it towards a more sustainable and innovative path.
