South Korean automaker Kia is apparently planning to launch a new powerful battery-electric sedan to replace the already retired Stinger. According to a leaked Union New Car Production schedule shared by TheKoreanCarBlog, the new model is codenamed “GT1” and referred to as the “EV8.”
eM platform-based Kia EV8 to replace Stinger
The upcoming Kia EV8 is expected to become the inaugural electric vehicle model to ride on Hyundai Group’s next-gen “eM” platform, which the latter developed to support all EVs across all market segments. For context, it is one of the two impending platforms to utilize the Group’s new Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA).
During the platform’s debut last year, Hyundai noted that it will enable a 50% driving range improvement compared to current EV models.
As per the report, the new Kia EV8 (codenamed GT1) will arrive as an electric replacement for the Stinger and successor to the K8.
Technical details
The leaked document also revealed numerous key technical details of the upcoming Kia EV8, including its huge 113.2 kWh battery pack. It will enable the model to advance as the first South Korean EV to feature such a large battery. For reference, the Kia EV9 only offers up to 99.8 kWh battery capacity. The Kia EV8 is expected to enable a WLTP-rated range of 435 miles to 497 miles.
The Kia EV8 will also have a two-motor powertrain that generates an output of up to 603 horsepower (450 kW/612 PS), making it the brand’s most powerful EV to date. It beats the EV6 GT that propels 577 horsepower (430 kW/585 PS).
Design
The Kia EV8 will maintain the Kia EV6’s legacy rising beltline and the brand’s iconic digital tiger nose, according to Korean Car News.
However, it will come with a distinctive coupe-like low stance and sloping roofline similar to the original Stinger. It will also reportedly feature some qualities of the sexy Kia K5 rear-end.
Kia plans to start producing the EV8 at its existing Hwaseong Plant 3 in 2026. Apart from the EV8, Kia is also planning to launch two new entry-level models under its “EVs for all” vision. These models include the EV3 and EV4, with a price range of $30,000 to $80,000.
