Leading the charge as Korea’s first dedicated EV factory
KIA’s commitment to electrification, sustainability, and a greener future will take a significant step forward with the soon-tobe-launched Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong, set to become South Korea’s first dedicated electric vehicle (EV) factory. This facility not only symbolizes Kia’s dedication to innovation and challenge but also emphasizes the brand’s pledge toward sustainable growth, environmental responsibility, and intensified carbon-neutral initiatives.
In line with Kia’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, the company will actively decrease carbon emissions in its manufacturing processes and notably increase the use of renewable energy, incorporating solar power generation systems in both domestic and overseas production sites.
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chairman Euisun Chung, in his New Year address, encouraged a proactive approach: “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.”
Preparing for the future
The New Year Festivities at Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong served as a platform to highlight Hyundai Motor Group’s focus for the upcoming year. Established in 1973 as South Korea’s first integrated automobile factory, Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong played a pivotal role in initiating the country’s fullscale automobile production era.
In the first half of the year, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) plans to finalize the construction of Korea’s inaugural dedicated EV factory at this site, marking a significant milestone in the history of future mobility. Additionally, 2024 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.
Chung, looking ahead to 2024, expressed excitement about the innovations in electrification starting at AutoLand Gwangmyeong and extending to Ulsan, the United States, and beyond. The group aims to complete the redevelopment of the Kia AutoLand Gwangmyeong EV Plant by the second quarter, producing the brand’s EV3, a compact electric crossover, with the goal of contributing significantly to becoming one of the top three global EV manufacturers by 2030.
Kia electrified mobility: The Kia EV6 in the Philippines
As part of Kia Philippines’ commitment to sustainability, the Kia EV6 Battery Electric Vehicle was introduced in 2023. The EV6 boasts a 229-PS and 350-Nm Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, rear-wheel drive configuration, and a 2,900-mm wheelbase, offering a powerful and practical crossover experience. With an EPA-estimated range of 528 kilometers (km) on a single charge, the Kia EV6 delivers real-world practicality and performance.
Featuring a 12.3-inch Apple CarPlay and Android Auto equipped touchscreen infotainment system, a 14-speaker Meridian Surround Sound setup, black suede and white leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof, the Kia EV6 provides premium comfort for city drives or long countryside journeys.
Equipped with advanced driver assistance features such as smart cruise control, blind spot detection, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, forward collision avoidance, rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist, and safe exit assist, the Kia EV6 prioritizes driving safety.
The Kia EV6, priced at P3.788 million, comes with a 5-year or 160,000-km vehicle warranty and an 8-year or 160,000km battery warranty, providing customers with peace of mind.