Kia revealed the 576-hp EV6 GT performance crossover for the first time in the USA last week at The Quail.
The presence of the EV6 GT alongside supercars from around the world during the annual Monterey Car Week celebrations solidifies Kia’s place among the fastest and most sophisticated players.
“The EV6 GT ushers in the next chapter of the Plan S electrification story for Kia, elevating the EV6’s thrilling performance and effortless drivability beyond expectations,” said Steven Center, COO and Executive Vice President, Kia America, at the event last week. “Moving toward our tailpipe zero-emissions goals has never been as exhilarating.”
The arrival of the EV6 GT, the most powerful Kia production vehicle yet produced, marks a new era for electrification and the Kia brand. Based on the award-winning E-GMP modular platform, the EV6 GT elevates the discourse and expands the limits surrounding electric performance vehicles.
The EV6 GT raises the threshold of performance for the already potent EV6 line-up, with a dual-motor e-AWD powertrain that sends power to all four wheels. An energy-dense 77.4-kWh Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese (80/10/10) battery pack serves a front-mounted 160kW motor, combined with a rear-mounted 270kW motor, to produce a combined power output of 430 kW and 740 Nm of torque.
The EV6 GT accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, and top speed rises to 258 km/h. In independent testing performed by leading third party AMCI, the EV6 GT out-accelerated a Ferrari Roma and Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder RWD.
The performance upgrades that define the EV6 GT also include a dedicated sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers and unique front suspension performance components. Dynamic damping control offers sporty handling and a balanced, comfortable ride. Traction and stability are enhanced by an electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) when cornering, by directing torque to the wheels with most grip. Larger ventilated front (15-inch) and rear (14.2) disc brakes with monoblock callipers are standard. Z-rated Goodyear Eagle F1 tires fitted with 21-inch alloy wheels are also standard on the EV6 GT.
The EV6 GT introduces GT Drive Mode, My Drive Mode, and Drift Mode, in addition to the Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow drive modes offered on other EV6 models. With the push of a button on the steering wheel, GT Drive Mode optimizes the performance of the EV6 GT’s motors, braking, steering, suspension, e-LSD, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems into their most dynamic settings.
Drivers can also create custom-tailored settings to suit individual driving preferences using My Drive Mode. For an even more controllable driving experience, selectable Drift Mode allows drivers to distribute power to the rear wheels. Two additional sounds unique to the EV6 GT join the roster of customisable Active Sound Design options.
The EV6 GT benefits from the ability to recharge at a rate similar to its eye-opening acceleration. It features 800V fast charging capabilities, which enables drivers to replenish 80 percent of battery capacity in under 18 minutes at 350kW chargers. The EV6 GT features a strong body structure that utilises 75% high-strength steel and ultra-high strength steel, as well as the world-first, mass-produced integrated drive axle (IDA) to enhance durability and handling, combining wheel bearings with the drive shaft to save weight.
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