The future of several Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States is in question, as the companies delay or abandon plans for certain models amid falling sales and changing market conditions. The shift comes after the removal of federal EV tax credits last fall, which triggered a significant drop in EV demand nationwide.
Declining EV Sales and Market Shifts
Electric car sales, once steadily rising, have slowed dramatically since the federal tax credit ended. This has forced Hyundai and Kia to reassess their EV lineup expansion, with some models now facing indefinite delays or outright cancellation. The situation highlights a broader trend: the EV market is cooling down, and automakers are reacting by scaling back ambitious plans.
Hyundai’s Electric Lineup: What’s Confirmed, What’s Not?
Hyundai has confirmed the 2026 Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 (both built in the US) will continue, though the Ioniq 9’s sales are down nearly 50% since the tax credit ended. The popular Ioniq 5 has seen a rebound, with a 33% sales increase in February. However, the Ioniq 6 is struggling, with sales down 77% year-over-year, and there’s no official word on whether the updated 2026 model will even reach US showrooms. Hyundai will also sell a limited quantity of the high-performance Ioniq 6 N in the US.
Kia’s EV Future: Models in Limbo
Kia has confirmed the 2026 EV9 but remains silent on the EV6. Sales of both models are down significantly, with the EV6 dropping from 2817 units to 1140 in the same period last year. The high-performance GT version of the EV6 has been canceled. Further complicating matters, Kia has delayed the release of the EV4 sedan indefinitely and removed most information about it from its website. Plans for the related EV3 SUV are also uncertain, with little to no new information available. The situation reflects potential concerns about import tariffs and shifting market priorities.
Genesis EVs: Sales Slump and Uncertain Prospects
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, is also facing challenges. Sales of the GV60 and Electrified GV70 have plummeted, with volumes down by over 80% compared to last year. The Electrified G80 sedan was discontinued in August 2025. The GV90, teased with the Neolun concept, remains unconfirmed for production.
The overarching trend is clear: Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are prioritizing models already selling well in the US, particularly those built domestically. They are likely to delay or cancel less-proven EV segments to adapt to the cooling market.
Ultimately, consumers should not expect a rapid influx of new EVs from these automakers in the near future. The companies will likely focus on maximizing sales of existing, successful models rather than taking risks on unproven products.
