Lee Johnson Kia Named Best Place to Buy an EV in Washington for 2025 & 2026
Lee Johnson Kia, part of the Lee Johnson Auto Family, has been recognized by Recurrent as one of the Best Places to Buy an EV for both 2025 and 2026. This distinction highlights the dealership’s commitment to EV expertise, outstanding customer service, and helping local drivers confidently transition to electric vehicles.
Serving drivers in Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, and the greater Seattle area, Lee Johnson Kia has built a reputation as a trusted destination for shoppers exploring the latest Kia electric vehicles. From guidance on home and public charging to explaining advanced technology and lease options, Lee Johnson Kia provides a seamless EV buying experience for Washington drivers looking for a new Kia EV.
What the Best Places to Buy an EV Recognition Means
The Best Places to Buy an EV recognition is awarded to dealerships based on a variety of factors, including:
- Strong knowledge of electric vehicles and charging
- Consistent availability of EV inventory
- Survey responses from over 30,000 EV owners
For shoppers, this means confidence. Choosing a recognized EV dealer like Lee Johnson Kia ensures you’re working with a team that understands EV technology, incentives, and ownership experience from start to finish.
Exclusive Interview with Lee Johnson Kia & Recurrent
In a recent interview on EV Insider, Pete Berkey, General Manager of Lee Johnson Kia, spoke with Recurrent’s Scott Case about the evolving EV landscape, what influences buyer behavior in Kirkland, and where he sees the market heading.
One of the most defining characteristics of the local EV market?
“[Our customers] like technology. Technology drives them and they like driving technology.”
With major tech employers like Microsoft, Google, and Meta located just minutes away, Lee Johnson Kia serves a highly educated, tech-forward customer base. Many buyers are deeply familiar with the innovation behind EVs, making advanced features and performance a top priority.
Berkey also noted that EVs are no longer niche in Kirkland:
- EVs account for 30–40% of total vehicle sales at the dealership
- Demand remains strong despite changes to federal incentives
- Shoppers are highly engaged with both vehicle tech and charging ecosystems
EV Market Trends and Customer Priorities in the Seattle Area
EV buyers today are looking for range, advanced technology, and a seamless driving experience. The greater Seattle area continues to lead EV adoption nationwide, and Kirkland sits at the center of that growth.
Local EV buyers prioritize:
- Driving range for both commuting and long trips
- Advanced technology features, including infotainment, safety, and driver assistance
- Ease of charging, both at home and at public stations
Lee Johnson Kia helps customers navigate these priorities with expert guidance and hands-on support, ensuring buyers make informed choices. As Berkey explains, selling EVs is more like a tech consultation:
“When it comes to EVs, they’re not just selling a car, they are truly consulting [customers] on the functionality and operations of their entire vehicle.”
Looking Ahead: EV Growth and What’s Next
While some automakers are increasing focus on hybrids and plug-in hybrids, EV demand in the Seattle-area market remains strong.
Lee Johnson Kia expects continued momentum, supported by:
- High EV adoption rates locally
- A well-developed charging infrastructure
- Ongoing innovation from Kia’s EV lineup
One model generating significant excitement is the upcoming Kia EV3.
Berkey believes it could be a game-changer:
- Expected price point in the mid-$30K range
- Estimated range of 320 miles
- Designed to make EV ownership accessible to a broader audience
This model could help bridge the gap for buyers who want an affordable EV without sacrificing range or features.
Shop New Kia EVs for Sale at Lee Johnson Kia
Lee Johnson Kia’s EV lineup is designed to meet a variety of customer needs:
- Kia EV9 – Full-size SUV and our top-selling EV, known for spacious interiors, advanced technology, and long-range capability.
- Kia EV6 – Sporty crossover offering a balance of performance, technology, and range.
- Upcoming Kia EV3 – Affordable and efficient, designed to attract new EV buyers, with excellent range and advanced features.
Visit Lee Johnson Kia to experience these models firsthand today!
Why Local EV Buyers Choose Lee Johnson Kia
Lee Johnson Kia’s continued success in EV sales comes down to a few key advantages:
- High-demand EV inventory – Models like the Kia EV9 consistently attract buyers.
- Tech-focused local market – Kirkland buyers value connected, feature-rich vehicles.
- Comprehensive support – Expert guidance helps customers understand technology, vehicle options, and leasing programs.
EV Frequently Asked Questions
Which Kia EV models are available at Lee Johnson Kia?
We carry the Kia EV9, Kia EV6, and will offer the upcoming Kia EV3, covering full-size SUVs, sporty crossovers, and compact EVs.
Which Kia EV is most popular at Lee Johnson Kia?
The Kia EV9 is consistently one of the top-selling vehicles at the dealership, often ranking as the #1 or #2 model overall.
Are there any federal tax credits or rebates available for EVs in 2026?
The federal clean vehicle tax credit is no longer available for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. Other local incentives may still apply. Please contact us for details.
Is Kirkland a good place to own an electric vehicle?
Yes. With widespread charging infrastructure and a strong EV community, Kirkland is one of the best places in Washington to own an EV.
Can I test drive a Kia EV?
Yes! Scheduling a test drive allows buyers to experience the Kia EV lineup firsthand and choose the model that fits their lifestyle.
Make the Switch to an EV at Lee Johnson Kia Today
Visit Lee Johnson Kia in Kirkland, WA, to explore top-selling EV models, current Kia EV lease offers, and upcoming releases. Recognized as a Best Place to Buy Electric Vehicles, we’re committed to helping buyers find the perfect EV to fit their lifestyle.
