The high-performance Kia EV6 GT has been put on hold in the United States, with Kia Corporation confirming that the 2026 model will be delayed indefinitely. The announcement comes as automakers across the industry reassess electric vehicle strategies amid tariffs, slowing EV demand and shifting market economics. While the performance-focused variant faces an uncertain future, other trims of the EV6 lineup will continue to be sold.

Tariffs and market conditions behind the delay

According to Carsdirect, Kia said the delay stems from “changing market conditions,” which have made it difficult to sell the EV6 GT at a competitive price in the US. The performance model is imported from South Korea and is subject to import tariffs, raising the potential retail price significantly.

Unlike the GT variant, most other EV6 trims are assembled in Kia’s manufacturing facility in Georgia. Because they are built locally, those versions are not affected by the same tariff pressures and will remain available in the US market.

Industry analysts say tariffs, combined with weaker electric-vehicle demand, have made it harder for manufacturers to justify importing expensive performance EVs. The EV6 GT was previously one of Kia’s most powerful electric models, known for delivering strong acceleration and performance-oriented features, but its premium price made it particularly vulnerable to changing market conditions.

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EV sales slowdown reshaping strategies

The delay also reflects broader shifts in the electric-vehicle market. Sales of the EV6 have declined significantly in the US, with just over 1,100 units sold in the first two months of the year, less than half the volume recorded during the same period the previous year.

Another factor affecting demand has been the removal of federal EV tax credits in the US, which previously helped make electric vehicles more affordable for buyers. The loss of these incentives has cooled consumer interest and forced automakers to rethink product launches and pricing strategies. Kia has also postponed several other upcoming electric models in the US market, including the EV3 compact hatchback and EV4 sedan. These delays suggest the company is prioritising profitability and focusing on vehicles produced domestically or those with stronger market demand.

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The delayed arrival of the 2026 Kia EV6 GT highlights the growing uncertainty in the EV sector as automakers balance innovation with economic realities. While the rest of the EV6 lineup remains on sale, the future of the performance-focused GT variant in the US remains unclear, with no confirmed timeline for its return.