Interesting Facts about Kia Motors You May Not Know

Kia Motors is Korea’s oldest motor vehicle manufacturer. From humble beginnings, Kia has grown into the world’s fifth-largest vehicle manufacturer. At present, Kia has a presence in eight countries. Its vehicles are sold through a network of 3000 distributors and dealers across 172 countries. Its product lineup includes compact hatchbacks, SUVs, minivans, and performance sedans. Kia’s best-selling cars are known for their quality, appearance, efficiency, reliability, and affordability. Comprehensive car insurance ensures the safety of your car on road.

Let us find out more about Kia motors, its history, and some interesting facts

1. Originally Started as A Bicycle Manufacturer:

Kia corporation was founded in May 1944, as a bicycle manufacturer. It was originally known as Kyungsung Precision Industry. It unveiled Korea’s first bicycle Samchully in 1952 and was renamed Kia Industries. The company’s first passenger car Brisa was unveiled in 1974.

2. Kia Means ‘ Rising from The East’:

The name Kia is made by combining the Sino-Korean characters ‘Ki’ and ‘A’. ‘Ki’ means to rise or to come out and ‘A’ means East or Asia. So it translates to rising from the east or coming from Asia.

3. Developed Its Own Engine in the 70s:

During the 60s, Kia partnered with Japanese carmaker Mazda. With the experience gained from this partnership, it made its very first engine in the 70s which paved the way for the launch of its first passenger car Brisa. Brisa was inspired by Mazda 1300. Kia started exporting Brisa and the first shipment was sent to Qatar.

4. Shut Down Production of Passenger Cars in 1979:

The South Korean government was overthrown in 1979, and the country went under the dictatorship of a military dictator. All major industries had to shut down and repurpose themselves for military production. Due to this, Kia also had to completely shut down the production of its passenger cars to produce light trucks.

5. Ford helped Kia to Restart Production again:

After the military coup, the company did not have the resources and technical base to restart the production of passenger cars again. During this time, Kia struck a deal with Ford, under which it manufactured some of Ford’s models for the South Korean market under a license.

6. First Commercial Success in 1986:

Kia got its first commercial success in 1986 when it produced Kia Pride. It was based on Mazda 121 and was sold in North America as Ford Festiva. The Korean car was very well received and the company sold 2 million cars.

7. Developed Its First Diesel Engine in the 90s:

In 1990, Kia developed its first diesel engine DOHC. Two years later company incorporated Kia Motors America in the United States. The first model launched in American markets was Kia Sephia. After some time a crossover called Kia Sportage was launched, which became the most popular SUV in America.

8. Acquired By Hyundai Motors in 1998:

During the Asian financial Crisis Kia declared bankruptcy and later reached an agreement with Hyundai Motors. Hyundai acquired

51% of the company and became its largest stakeholder. Kia shares its engine designs with Hyundai.

9. Focus on European Market:

In recent years, European markets have been Kia’s priority. The company has made a strong presence in Europe were competing with local players is difficult. It has registered record sales and continues to grow. The company designed Kia CEED which is exclusive to the European market. CEED stands for ‘Community of Europe and European Design’.

10. More than 500 Awards in Different Countries:

Kia has received many awards all across the world. Its reliability, safety, quality, and designs have won many accolades over the years. Kia has won awards in UAE, America, and many other countries. Recently Kia Telluride won the prestigious ‘Triple Crown’ automotive award. It is the first SUV to win this award.

11. Chosen by Pope Francis:

The People’s Pope is known for his simple lifestyle. During a visit to the UAE, Pope Francis arrived in a Kia Soul car for his official welcome and sent across a strong message with his humility. The simple Kia Soul got the best brand ambassador.

12. Manufactures Military Vehicles:

Kia is the official supplier of military vehicles to the South Korean Army. It is the sole research institute for developing Korean military vehicles along with production. It also supplies military vehicles to 20 foreign nations.

13. Sponsors Sports Events and Athletes Around the World:

Kia is the largest sponsor of many sports events like FIFA World Cup, UEFA Championship, NBA, etc. It also sponsors individual sportspeople like Rafael Nadal, LeBron James, Michele Wie, and many more. Kia also supports many tournaments and fans.

14. Redesigned Logo and New Brand Slogan:

Kia recently redesigned its famous red oval logo in an effort to revamp its image for a changing market. The logo is changed to ‘KIΛ’ and patented. The new logo demonstrates confidence, rising ambitions, and a movement from old to new. The company also announced its new brand slogan ‘Movement that Inspires’. Kia has a different logo in South Korea where it uses a ‘K’ in a stylized font.

15. Dominated Indian Market in a Short Time:

Kia with its customer-centric strategy and a very well-planned entry has dominated the Indian market in a very short time. Its reliable and high-quality products at a very affordable price are appealing to young buyers. The popularity of Kia cars is such that its first launch became a best seller within a period of 10 months. Kia car insurance is recommended for your car to drive safely on road.

Consider buying a Kia car for its outstanding quality and affordability. Take a closer look at the article on Why You Should Buy a Kia Car?

Conclusion

These were a few interesting facts about Kia Motors and how it became a global company. If you are planning to buy a Kia Car, do not forget to get it insured with Kia car insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.