Kia Tasman Ute in Australia: No AdBlue Required

The upcoming Kia Tasman ute, set to hit Australian roads soon, has been tailored to meet the country's specific emissions standards. Unlike its Korean-market counterpart, the Australian Tasman won’t require AdBlue, an additive used in diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions. Here’s why the Tasman is skipping AdBlue in Australia, and what it means for drivers.

AdBlue: Essential for Some, Optional for Others

AdBlue, a solution of urea and water, helps reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel engines. When injected into the exhaust system, it converts harmful NOx into nitrogen, water, and trace amounts of carbon dioxide. AdBlue systems have become common in Europe to meet strict Euro 6 emissions standards, and they’re used in several Australian models like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X and Tremor and the Mitsubishi Triton.

However, AdBlue comes with some logistical considerations for drivers. It requires periodic refills, typically lasting between 12,000 km and 16,000 km in regular driving. This means drivers have to remember to keep their AdBlue tanks topped up, or face potential engine limitations.

Why the Tasman Skips AdBlue in Australia

The decision to forego AdBlue in the Australian Kia Tasman comes down to emissions regulations. While Australia is tightening standards under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), the requirements aren’t as stringent as those in Europe. The NVES, set to take effect in 2025, will introduce penalties for brands that exceed their CO2 targets but doesn’t mandate Euro 6 standards for all vehicles yet.

As Roland Rivero, Kia Australia’s general manager of product planning, explained, “The Korean domestic market does have a strong CO2 regulation…they’re going to have Euro 6 as a starting point with AdBlue. We don’t need to do that, we can start off at Euro 5 without the need for AdBlue.” This means that the Tasman will meet Euro 5 standards, allowing it to skip the AdBlue requirement while still aligning with Australian regulations.

Trade-Offs for AdBlue-Free Utes in Australia

The absence of AdBlue can have some effects beyond emissions compliance. For example, some vehicles forego AdBlue to preserve space for practical features, like full-sized spare wheels. This was the case with the SsangYong Musso, which opted out of AdBlue for the Australian market so it could maintain a full-sized spare. However, this also meant forgoing a higher-tuned engine variant.

What This Means for Kia Tasman Drivers

For Australian drivers, the lack of an AdBlue requirement simplifies ownership. Tasman drivers won’t need to worry about refilling AdBlue tanks or paying for maintenance associated with it. Additionally, by aligning with Euro 5 standards, Kia is positioning the Tasman as a practical choice for the Australian market without sacrificing its competitive edge in emissions standards compliance.

Looking Ahead: Emissions Standards in Australia

With the NVES approaching, it’s clear Australia is on a path toward stricter emissions standards, though not quite as strict as the Euro 6 regulations seen in other regions. This gives brands like Kia flexibility to design vehicles that are emissions-conscious while keeping Australian drivers’ convenience and practical needs in mind.

As Australia moves toward tougher emissions targets, we may see future Kia models incorporate AdBlue or similar technologies. For now, the Kia Tasman’s Euro 5 rating and AdBlue-free design make it a no-fuss option for Australian buyers seeking a capable, environmentally responsible ute that’s easy to maintain.