Kia is gearing up to redefine its performance legacy with the confirmation of a new halo model that could succeed the iconic Stinger GT. In an exclusive interview during a test drive of the new EV3, Kia President Ho-sung Song revealed to Autocar that the company is studying the development of a brand-building electric vehicle. “That kind of model is under study,” said Song. “What kind of model can help build the brand? This is what we are now studying.”
Reviving the Spirit of the Canceled Kia GT1 Project
The announcement comes a few months after the cancellation of the Kia GT1 project, a venture that aimed to introduce a high-performance sports car to Kia’s lineup based on Hyundai Motor Group’s new eM platform. While the GT1 never saw the light of day, the lessons learned are paving the way for a new electric sports car that could serve as a flagship for the brand.
Leveraging E-GMP Architecture for High Performance
The versatility of electric skateboard platforms like Kia’s E-GMP architecture makes the development of a high-performance electric vehicle more feasible than ever. This platform, which underpins successful models like the EV6 and EV9, allows for greater commonality of components and flexible configurations.
An electric halo model could boast features such as all-wheel drive from a dual-motor setup and power outputs exceeding 600bhp, delivering exhilarating performance while maintaining Kia’s commitment to sustainability.
Specifications of the former Stinger replacement project known internally as GT1
Kia’s Commitment to Electrification Despite Market Challenges
While acknowledging that demand for electric vehicles appears “sluggish,” Song expressed confidence in the long-term adoption of EVs. “The EV market is getting stronger, and I do not worry long term about EV uptake,” he stated.
Song emphasized that incentives are still crucial for boosting short-term demand and that the recent market volatility is partly due to the removal of incentives in countries like Germany. “In the meantime, most OEMs are trying our best to reduce the cost of EVs to provide a better price to our customers,” he added.
Conclusion
Kia’s exploration of a new electric halo model signifies the brand’s dedication to innovation and performance in the electric era. By potentially reviving the spirit of the canceled GT1 project and leveraging advanced architectures and battery technologies, Kia is poised to make a significant impact on the high-performance electric vehicle market.
