Launching first EV-dedicated factory in Korea soon
Kia is further embracing electrification, sustainability, and a greener future as it enters the year 2024.
The company is committed to fostering a corporate culture that encourages innovation, sustainable growth, environmental responsibility, and carbon-neutral initiatives.
Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong, soon to be the first dedicated electric vehicle (EV) factory in Korea, symbolizes these objectives. It serves as the venue for the brand’s New Year Festivities and represents the bright future Kia envisions for itself and its expanding customer base.
To achieve carbon-neutrality by 2045, Kia plans to actively reduce carbon emissions in its manufacturing processes and significantly increase the use of renewable energy. This includes the implementation of solar power generation systems in both domestic and overseas production sites.
“Instead of fearing what comes next, let us rise to the challenge. Let us keep reinventing and innovating ourselves to usher in a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow,” said Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, during his New Year address.
Preparing for the future, Kia chose the Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong facility for this year’s ceremony, emphasizing its focus for the year ahead. Established in 1973 as Korea’s first integrated automobile factory, it introduced the country’s full-scale automobile production era with a conveyor belt production process.
In the first half of 2024, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will complete the construction of Korea’s first dedicated EV factory at the site, marking a significant milestone in the history of future mobility.
This year also commemorates the 80th anniversary of Kia’s founding and the 50th anniversary of the launch of Kia’s first passenger car, the Brisa, produced at Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong.
Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Euisun Chung expressed excitement about the series of electrification innovations that will begin at AutoLand Gwangmyeong and expand to Ulsan, the United States, and beyond.
HMG plans to complete the redevelopment of the Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong EV Plant in the second quarter of this year. The upgraded facility will produce the brand’s compact electric crossover, the EV3, for domestic and international markets. Kia aims to play a significant role in achieving the overall group strategy of becoming one of the top three global EV manufacturers by 2030.
As part of its evolving sustainability efforts, Kia Philippines introduced the Kia EV6 Battery Electric Vehicle in 2023. With its powerful 229-PS and 350-Nm Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, rear-wheel drive configuration, and 2,900-mm wheelbase, the Kia EV6 offers a potent crossover experience for up to five passengers. Its EPA-estimated range of 528 kilometers on a single charge provides real-world practicality and performance.
With its Vehicle-to-Load feature, the Kia EV6 can even power home appliances or tools using its onboard battery pack, making it a versatile premium electric mobility crossover for families and professionals.
The Kia EV6 is priced at P3,788,000 and comes with a 5-year or 160,000-km vehicle warranty, as well as an 8-year or 160,000-km battery warranty, providing customers with peace of mind.