Kia To US — No EV4 For You! - CleanTechnica

The article discusses Kia's decision not to bring its affordable electric vehicle, the EV4, to the US market despite earlier plans. The EV4, which offers two battery options (58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh) and two body styles (hatchback and fastback sedan), was initially expected to start around $37,000, positioning it as one of the more affordable EVs in America. However, recent developments, including the rollback of federal EV incentives, the imposition of tariffs on South Korean imports (initially 25%, reduced to 15%), and a hostile political and social environment toward foreign workers supporting EV manufacturing, have influenced Kia's decision to delay or potentially cancel the US launch. The article highlights broader challenges facing foreign automakers in the US, such as political instability, protectionist trade policies, and social tensions exemplified by immigration enforcement actions in Georgia that impacted workers at a Hyundai/Kia battery factory. These factors contribute to Kia's cautious approach