Kia was founded in 1944 in Korea. Operating under the Hyundai-Kia Group, the company produces both internal combustion engine vehicles and electric mobility solutions.
Kia Logo (Kia Official Website)
Historical Development
Kia has a nearly 80-year history, initially producing bicycles, motorcycles, and light commercial vehicles. In the 1990s, the company underwent a transformation through strategic partnerships, and in the 2000s, it strengthened its brand presence in global markets, particularly in the SUV segment. After 2020, Kia accelerated its transition to electric mobility with models such as EV6, EV9, and EV5.
Product Range
Passenger Cars and Compact Models
- Rio (also sold as Pegas/Soluto in some markets)
- Forte/K3
SUV and Crossover Models
- Seltos
- Sportage
- Telluride
Pick-Up and Light Commercial Vehicles
- Carnival (classified as MPV but suitable for commercial and family use)
Electric and Hybrid Models (EV, PHEV, HEV)
- EV6 (BEV)
- EV9 (BEV)
- EV5 (BEV)
- EV4 (BEV, from 2025)
- EV3 (BEV, entry-level)
- Niro EV/Hybrid (EV, HEV, PHEV)
- Plug-in hybrid models and K8 Hybrid
Electric Vehicle Technology
Kia develops its electric vehicles on the Hyundai-Kia Group’s E-GMP platform, benefiting from modularity, efficiency, and range optimization. Flagship models such as EV6 and EV9 provide strong performance and range, while entry-level models like EV5 and EV3 aim to reach broader market segments. In 2024, EV sales increased by 10% to 201,000 units, with record sales for EV6 and EV9 in the U.S.
Global Production Network and Financial Performance
Kia has production facilities in South Korea, the U.S., Mexico, India, and China (Jiangsu Yueda Kia). In 2024, global sales reached a record 3,089,300 units, generating revenue of 107.45 trillion KRW and an operating profit of 12.67 trillion KRW. Electrification accounted for 21.5% of total sales.
Market Performance and International Growth
In 2024, Kia achieved seven consecutive years of growth in the U.S. with 796,488 vehicles sold. EV9 recorded 22,017 units, and EV6 achieved 21,715 units. In Q2 2025, Kia overtook Hyundai in the U.S. EV market, capturing a 5.4% share and ranking second.
Strategic Goals and Future Vision
Kia aims to sell 1.6 million electric vehicles annually by 2030. Plans include expanding access to entry-level segments with models such as EV2, EV4, and EV5, as well as offering commercial EV solutions like PV5, PV7, and PV9. Compact model launches, including EV3 and EV2, are expected by 2026.
