KIA has electrified the Australian Open by supplying 130 EV and hybrid vehicles for use by tennis officials, players and staff at this month’s games.

L-R: Damien Meredith, Ash Barty, Craig Tiley with EV9

The deal is part of Kia Australia’s major partnership with the Australian Open (AO) that this year leans heavily to the brand’s electric models, including the all-electric EV5, EV6, and EV9, and hybrid-electric Carnival, Sorento and Sportage. Kia said that this is the first year that all AO tournament vehicles are electrified. It held its annual fleet handover ceremony on January 8 at Grand Slam Oval in Melbourne Park, where Australian sporting icon Ash Barty officially launched the fleet.

Kia Australia CEO Damien Meredith said: “Kia’s partnership with the Australian Open, now going into its 24th year, revolves around pushing boundaries and we’re signalling our intent this year with the very first fully electrified AO fleet.”

L-R: Damien Meredith, Ash Barty, Craig Tiley and Todd Woodbridge

“2025 is an especially important year for the Kia brand, both locally and globally, as we look to scale up our ambitious journey as a sustainable mobility provider. “Our ongoing commitment to sustainability is reflected in the selection of electrified vehicles that will power mobility in Melbourne throughout the tournament.”

Kia has detailed its roadmap towards being a sustainable mobility leader in 2030 in its Plan S strategy. This year marks a significant milestone in this plan as the brand looks to introduce more electric vehicles to its global model range.

Kia AO: Ceremony Booth

AO tournament director Craig Tiley said: “We are delighted to continue our close relationship with Kia, the Australian Open’s longest-serving partner and one of the most enduring sports sponsorships in Australia.”

“The Australian Open and Kia are both committed to cultivating and celebrating the spirit of progress – making us ideal partners.”

The AO25 will run for 15 days from January 12 to 26.