A vehicle from global carmaker Kia with a special connection to Tasmania has been officially unveiled at an event in Hobart.

The launch of Kia’s first utility vehicle was kept “top secret” to the general public, and was held on Tuesday evening at a “blacked out” Princes Wharf 1 on Hobart’s waterfront.

The southern hemisphere launch in Hobart took place simultaneously with the northern hemisphere launch at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia.

The ute was named after 17th-century explorer Abel Tasman, Tasmania’s namesake, after reaching the state’s west coast in November 1642.

Kia Australia Managing Director Ted Lee said the launch marks the latest addition to the brand’s extensive range.

“The Kia Tasman sets the benchmark for Kia’s future ute range,” Lee said.

“With its thoughtful design and cutting-edge technology, combined with class-leading convenience features and an ultra-spacious, comfortable cabin, the Tasman is poised to redefine industry standards, allowing drivers to explore new horizons. »

Drawing on more than five decades of expertise in developing specialty vehicles, including off-road vehicles, Kia says the Tasman is a “truly transformative vehicle that effortlessly meets the needs of work and leisure activities “.

The launch in Hobart was attended by several Australian sporting icons who featured in a recent television advert, including AFL legend Buddy Franklin, NRL icon Darren Lockyer, Australian cricket great Steve Waugh, fighter UFC star Alex Volkanovski and former NBA basketball player Luc Longley.

The Kia Tasman will initially launch in the Korean domestic market in the first half of next year before going on sale in Australia (including Tasmania) later in 2025.