Kia Motors

Kia Motors was founded on December 1, 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry, a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts, eventually producing Korea's first domestic bicycle. Over the decades, Kia Motors expanded its manufacturing capabilities and begin producing automobiles, playing a key role in the development of the South Korean automotive industry.

In 1998, following the Asian financial crisis, Kia Motors declared bankruptcy, which led to an acquisition by Hyundai Motor Company in 1998. Through this acquisition, Hyundai Motor Group became the second largest automotive manufacturer in South Korea after Hyundai Motor Company itself, enabling massive synergies and growth for both companies.

The Kia cee’d was unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show, designed specifically for the European market to boost sales and compete with other European brands. The cee’d marked a turning point for Kia, as the model was praised for its design and quality, setting a new standard for the brand and helping establish Kia in Europe.

Kia launched the Soul in 2009 as a crossover SUV that combines bold styling with practicality. This model introduced Kia's new design direction under the guidance of Peter Schreyer, which played a significant role in transforming the brand's image and establishing Kia as a trendsetting design leader in the automotive world.

Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) was officially opened in West Point, Georgia in 2010. This $1 billion investment represented Kia’s largest single investment in the United States. The plant has contributed significantly to the local economy, created thousands of jobs, and increased Kia’s production capacity and presence in the North American market.

In 2011, Kia achieved a milestone with impressive global sales growth, surpassing the 2 million units mark for the first time in a single year. This growth was driven by the popularity of models like the Kia Optima, Sportage, and the success of the brand's innovative marketing and design shifts. This marked a significant step in Kia’s transformation into a global powerhouse.

In November 2015, Kia launched 'Eco Dynamics', a sub-brand introduced to lead the company's efforts in developing eco-friendly vehicles. This line includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles, aiming to position Kia as a leader in alternative fuel vehicles globally, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

In 2017, Kia launched the Stinger, its first ever sports sedan, at the North American International Auto Show. It was designed to compete with luxury sport sedans, showcasing Kia's ability to produce performance-oriented vehicles. The Stinger received acclaim for its driving dynamics, and marked an important shift in Kia's brand perception.

In September 2020, Kia unveiled its new logo and the brand slogan 'Movement that Inspires', representing a pivotal reinvention of the brand. The new design aimed to reflect Kia’s transformation as they focus on electric vehicles, mobility solutions, and strive for leadership in the future automotive industry.

In March 2021, Kia launched the EV6, its first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV). The EV6 is based on Kia's new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and signifies Kia's commitment to an electric future. With impressive range and fast charging capabilities, the EV6 represents Kia's strategy to transition to sustainable and eco-friendly vehicle options.