Thursday marked a milestone at Kia Georgia’s West Point plant as the all-electric 2025 EV9 SUV, the first saleable electric vehicle in Georgia, began assembly, introduced by SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon and driven off the line by Gov. Brian Kemp and James Watson.
“Marty and I were privileged to be part of this monumental accomplishment by the Kia Georgia team,” said Governor Kemp. “This expansion of Kia’s operations in our state and the addition of this incredible new product line to the vehicles already being built in West Point is just the latest example of what comes from state and local partners working with this valued job creator. I want to congratulate the Kia Georgia team members on today’s achievement and thank them for choosing the Peach State yet again as we work to become the e-mobility capital of the nation.”
The EV9 joins Kia Georgia’s SUV lineup, including Telluride, Sorento, and Sportage, after a $200 million expansion adding about 200 jobs, allowing the plant to assemble both EVs and traditional vehicles on the same line.
“Today’s launch of the Kia EV9 in Georgia is the latest example of Kia’s commitment to the U.S. market and the state of Georgia,” said Yoon. “Through Plan S, Kia is poised to be a leader in the e-mobility sector for years to come. Having achieved prestigious accolades such as World Car of the Year, World EV of the Year, and North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, EV9 will be in excellent hands with the team members at Kia Georgia and their track record for assembling award-winning, world-renowned products speaks for itself.”
Stuart Countess, President and CEO of Kia Georgia, reflected on nearly 15 years since the first Kia vehicle was produced at their assembly line, crediting the team for the achievements leading to the recent celebration.
“Today, the Kia Georgia team is still going as strong as ever, continuing that mindset of turning challenges into opportunities,” said Countess. “We are excited for this chance to add Kia’s flagship EV to our facility and to enter this new era at Kia Georgia with the same quality focus of assembling the best vehicles in the world, right here in West Point.”