Electric vehicles are undoubtedly the future of transportation, and Kia just gave that future a major jumpstart in Georgia. In a landmark event witnessed by state leaders, the 2025 Kia EV9 all-electric SUV became the first of its kind to roll off an assembly line in the Peach State. This trailblazing moment at Kia's West Point facility sparks Georgia's electric revolution and signals Kia's readiness to be a powerhouse in the EV arena.
"Seeing that bright white EV9 emerge from the newly electrified assembly line gave me chills," remarked Stuart Countess, President and CEO of Kia Georgia. "It was like glimpsing the future of mobility." Countess reflected on the plant's genesis in 2009 and the Kia Georgia team's relentless spirit that transformed early trials into triumphs. "That same hunger to innovate and adapt propelled this electric milestone."
Leading the charge for Kia was SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, who introduced the EV9 alongside Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. Yoon emphasized Kia's commitment through Plan S to be an electrification trailblazer. "The EV9's Georgia-assembled quality raises the bar for the entire EV market - another Kia game-changer is here."
Governor Kemp hailed the over $200 million investment and 200 new jobs as an economic boon. But he painted an even bigger picture: "This is the spark igniting Georgia's electric vehicle leadership for decades ahead. Our work with Kia is steering us towards becoming America's e-mobility capital."
And this revolution isn't confined by borders. The West Point-assembled EV9 will be rolling into Canada, bringing electric excellence to discerning drivers. Its availability reinforces Kia's ability to deliver cutting-edge technology and performance - traits that enabled accolades like World Car of the Year and World EV of the Year.
The EV9 is the vanguard of Kia's "Movement that inspires" mantra coming to life. Its impeccable assembly quality matched with exhilarating electrified driving dynamics inspires us to reimagine what a vehicle can be. This pioneering Kia is more than just automotive brilliance - it's a symbol of humanity's resilience to tackle transformative challenges.
As the Kia EV9 prepares to energize driveways across North America, its Georgia origins represent a huge first step towards a new age of sustainable mobility.
