Tesla has officially launched its Supercharger network in Chile, which is the automaker’s first entry in South America.

The automaker has expanded its efforts across North America, and most countries in Europe, and it is still gradually expanding in Asia.

But there’s one continent that Tesla hasn’t touched yet: South America.

Late last year, we reported that this was about to change when Tesla started to list jobs in Chile.

A year later, things are starting to happen.

Tesla announced today that it officially launched its Supercharger network in Chile with the first two stations:

One is in Santiago, the country’s metropole, and the other one is in Curauma, on the coast.

Tesla has already opened two stores in Chile, both in Santiago, and the automaker has a service center in the work in the city also:

Tesla is already taking orders in the country and the Chilean Model Y configurator currently shows delivery in “October-November”:

Chile is an interesting choice for a first entry into the South American market. The Chilean auto market consists of only about 300,000 vehicles sold per year.

That’s roughly the number of vehicles sold in Brazil every month.

While the size of the auto market in the country is small, there’s a strong interest for electric vehicles there, which might explain Tesla’s foray.

The country is rich in lithium, a critical material for EV batteries, which has helped create interest for electric vehicles in the country. The government also announced an initiative to allow for only new sales of electric vehicles in the country starting in 2035.

It will be interesting to see how Tesla will compete with Chinese automakers who have so far been leading the electrification of South American markets.

Kia’s sporty EV6 GT is getting an overhaul. With its debut around the corner, the Kia EV6 GT facelift was spotted without camouflage for the first time.

After revealing the updated EV6 in May, Kia’s high-performance GT model is next in line for a refresh.

Kia claims the EV6 has “returned in a more perfect form” with more range, better ride quality, and a stylish new design. The updated model includes design elements from Kia’s latest EV models, like the EV3 and three-row EV9.

One of the most noticeable is the new daytime running lights and taillights with Kia’s “Star Map Signature Lighting.” The new thin LED light design is inspired by constellations, adding to its already bold look.

Kia didn’t stop at the lights. It fine-tuned the exterior, with the EV6’s hood now seamlessly flowing into the front bumper.

The GT-Line model gained additional details, including a 3D-patterned bumper for a lower, more aggressive stance.

Kia EV6 GT facelift spotted undisguised

With Kia’s most powerful EV, the EV6 GT (not GT-Line), next in line for a refresh, we are finally getting our first look at the updated high-performance EV undisguised.

Although we’ve caught a glimpse of the sporty EV a few times already, this is the first time it’s been spotted without camouflage.

The new photos from ShortsCar reveal the EV6 GT’s updated design. You can see the new DRLs and aggressive new bumper design right off the bat.

Like the EV6 refresh, the GT model will include a bigger battery and its fourth-gen batteries, enabling even more driving range. The new EV6 gets up to 307 miles (494 km) range in Korea, up from 295 miles (475 km).

With increased energy density, the new EV6 model can fast charge (10% to 80%) in just 18 minutes.

The interior will include Kia’s latest ccNC infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3″ driver and center screens.

According to TheKoreanCarBlog, like Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N, the EV6 GT will also gain a virtual transmission for that “high-performance car” feel.

Starting at $61,600, Kia’s EV6 GT is one of the most affordable sports cars (electric or gas-powered) on the market. Despite the upgrades, the new model is expected to start at around the same price.

The updated model is expected to retain the current GT model’s impressive 577 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque. However, with improved aerodynamics and powertrain, will Kia’s new model top the current GT’s 0 to 60 mph time in 3.4 seconds? We will find out soon, with its debut expected by the end of 2024.