Kia has earned a strong global reputation when it comes to electric vehicles. Sleek, futuristic models like the EV6 and EV9 have been applauded internationally, but here in the United States, that success isn’t quite translating on the ground. The first half of 2025 is turning out to be a reality check for Kia’s electric ambitions in America.
The sales data tells the story. Between January and June this year, only 4,938 EV9s were sold across the country. That’s a sharp fall, nearly 50% down from the same period in 2024. Things looked even bleaker last month, with just 913 EV9s leaving dealership lots compared to 1,905 the previous June.
Kia’s first electric darling, the EV6, isn’t faring much better. Year-to-date sales are off by 46%. And if we zoom in on June alone? Only 680 units sold, a jaw-dropping 69% drop from last year’s 2,171.
Why the Sudden Dip?
There are a few factors likely at play. For one, Kia’s more compact electric models, the EV3 and EV5, haven’t made their way to North American showrooms yet. That’s starting to look like a misstep, especially as U.S. buyers increasingly lean toward affordable, city-friendly EVs.
Then there’s the issue of timing. Federal tax credits for electric vehicles are expected to sunset by the end of September, and the uncertainty surrounding that change may be giving buyers pause. Add to that the uneven availability of charging stations, and the hesitation becomes more understandable.
Meanwhile, Gas Models Are Quietly Thriving
Despite the electric slowdown, Kia is far from struggling overall. The company’s U.S. sales are up by a solid 8% compared to the same stretch last year, 416,511 vehicles sold so far in 2025, versus 386,460 at this point in 2024.
Leading that charge is the K5 sedan. It’s a bit of an unexpected star; sales have nearly tripled year-over-year. Over 34,500 K5s were sold in the first half of this year, up from just under 13,000 in H1 2024. It seems the midsize sedan is back in favor with American drivers.
Other models are also seeing strong momentum. The Carnival minivan posted a 57% jump in sales, moving over 33,000 units. The Telluride, one of Kia’s most buzzed-about SUVs, is up 15% with over 61,500 sold. And the Sportage? It remains Kia’s top U.S. performer, with sales up 9% year-over-year.
Looking Forward
Kia’s electric lineup may be hitting speed bumps in the U.S., but the brand isn’t off track. With new models waiting in the wings and potential tax policy shifts coming soon, the second half of the year could bring a course correction.
For now, it’s the gasoline-powered vehicles that are doing the heavy lifting and keeping Kia firmly in the fast lane.
