The much-anticipated Kia Tasman electric truck has been sighted for the first time, with rumors suggesting a potential release as early as 2026. Now and according to an interview of U.S. media CarBuzz, a KIA executive confirmed the development of the electric Tasman.
On a recent roundtable interview, Kia’s Head of Marketing in South Africa, Christo Valentyn, told CarBuzz, “I’m probably not supposed to say this but… an electric Tasman is coming.”
Electric Kia Tasman: Performance and Specs
Industry reports suggest that the Kia Tasman electric truck will be available in both single-cab (one row of seats) and double-cab (two rows of seats) versions. Equipped with a dual-motor setup and a large-capacity 123 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Tasman is expected to offer a driving range of over 450 km on a single charge.
The internal combustion version of the Kia Tasman Double Cab, recently unveiled by Kia, has received praise for its impressive performance and high standard features that go beyond typical pickups.
A Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Vehicles
In line with the era of eco-friendly vehicles, the diesel (or gas-powered) version of the Tasman has been excluded, with only a gasoline model featuring a 2.5 turbo engine. This engine produces a maximum power output of 281 horsepower and 43.0 kg.m of torque. The gasoline model of the Tasman is scheduled for release early next year in markets such as Korea, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.
The Tasman pickup truck measures 5,410 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 3,270 mm. Roof rack height is 1,870 mm for the standard model, while the X-Pro variant reaches 1,920 mm.
Loading Capacity and Storage
The loading area of the Tasman spans 1,512 mm in length, 1,572 mm in width, and 1,186 mm across the wheelhouse, with a height of 540 mm. The truck’s bed liner is closely aligned with the body, optimizing the load capacity. With a maximum storage volume of 1,173 liters, the Tasman can carry up to 700 kg.
Advanced 4WD System for Off-Road Capabilities
Kia has equipped the Tasman with a 4WD system that includes multiple terrain modes, such as sand, mud, and snow. Additionally, it supports an “Auto Terrain Mode” where AI technology assesses road conditions to automatically select the optimal driving mode.
Towing Capacity and Cooling System
The Tasman’s design also features an expanded cooling vent and high-performance cooling fan, enabling it to tow up to 3,500 kg, perfect for trailers and yachts. The truck includes a tow mode that adjusts the gear-shifting pattern based on the towing weight, ensuring optimized fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and transmission.
Conclusion
The Kia Tasman, expected to make waves in the electric truck market, promises versatility, range, and off-road capability. As Kia moves toward eco-friendly options, this electric variant is poised to bring sustainability and robust performance to a competitive field.
