Kia, one of the leading automobile brands in the world, started its journey in 1944 from bicycle manufacturing. Gradually, the brand expanded its operations and manufactured licensed vehicles for brands like Honda and Mazda. Moreover, the brand’s first car was released in 1974 and was well-received by the customers. Since then, Kia has come a long way and is now reputed for its durable and technologically advanced vehicles.
Let’s take a closer look at Kia’s history and unfold the events that aid Kia in marking a distinct position among its peers.
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Kia Motors History
Here is the complete timeline of Kia elaborating on the journey of one of the oldest South Korean automobile brands.
Origin of the Brand (1944 to 1964)
Kia was initially named “Kyungsung Precision Industry”, which manufactures steel products and bicycles for the South Korean market. At that time, the company owned two manufacturing plants, one in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul and another in Busan.
In 1952, the industry was renamed “Kia” and its first bicycle “The Samchully” was unveiled. Following the success of its bicycle, Kia started new industrial units in the region and introduced the latest manufacturing technologies. In fact, the most interesting fact about Kia is that it still owns some of the largest automobile manufacturing units in the world. During this era, the production of the K-360 three-wheeler also started.
Progress Towards Passenger Car (1965 to 1974)
After the successful experiment with the bicycles, Kia progressed towards vehicle manufacturing. In 1957, Kia partnered with Honda for motorcycle manufacturing and with Mazda in 1962 for truck manufacturing. Later, in 1973, Kia set up its first automobile manufacturing plant and unveiled its first passenger car, Brisa, in 1974 featuring the iconic Kia logo.
Increasing Model Lineup (1975 to 1985)
The success of Brisa was followed by other cars, including the one-ton diesel Bongo and the midsize sedan Concord. Meanwhile, Kia’s export exceeds $100 million, aiding the brand to penetrate the international market. That said, in 1987, Kia was officially launched in the USA, making it an international brand.
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After that, Kia continues to expand in other countries; in fact, you can find Kia showrooms in the UAE at different locations, symbolising its success in the international market.
March Towards Bankruptcy (1986 to 1996)
The military dictatorship in Kia’s homeland significantly affected its production. The consolidation of the industries was mandatory, which forced Kia to shut down its operations. The brand partnered with Ford and started production of light trucks. Some of the vehicles produced by Kia during this collaboration were Mazda 121, Kia Pride and Avella.
After years of struggle, Kia returned to the market with its independently manufactured passenger car, Sephia. The Sephia was followed by Sportage, an iconic SUV of Kia that is still popular. Here is the complete Kia Sportage history elaborating on its different models and features. Elan, one of the earliest authentic Korean sports cars, was also launched by the brand during this era.
Launch of Successful Models (1997 to 2007)
After its bankruptcy, Kia merged with Hyundai in 1998. Kia launched some of the most successful series after the merger, including Sedona and Optima. The brand has received many awards for its vehicle’s quality, design and durability.
Here is the complete Kia Optima history, elaborating further on its generations and models.
Kia regained its position in the market and its production exceeded 10 million units. The brand opened its new manufacturing plant in China to meet the increasing demands.
Inclusion of Technologically Advanced Features (2008 to 2017)
During the previous decade, Kia focused on including advanced customer-centric features in its cars, which made them stand out among its peers. Vehicles like Venga, Optima and Sportage R were the prime examples of Kia’s focus on technology.
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These features and different Kia car generations helped it to become one of the top 50 Best global brands. Moreover, Kia’s accumulated exports increased to 50 million units.
Kia in the Present Time (2018 to Present)
Kia is currently focused on manufacturing EVs and reducing the carbon footprint of its vehicles. Alongside vehicles, the brand is also focused on reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing plants by introducing green technology and spaces in its units. Furthermore, the brand continued to increase the quality of its vehicles and has claimed a number of awards for it.
FAQs
Where did Kia originate?
The Kia’s country of origin is South Korea, the brand was started in 1944.
Who is the real owner of Kia?
In 1997, Kia was merged with Hyundai Motors and is still owned by the same company.
Why is Kia famous?
Kia cars are popular for their durability, performance, quality and advanced features.
This was the complete Kia history unfolding the interesting events which make Kia a leading automobile brand. Kia cars are popular in the market for their price and feature equilibrium, higher durability, better quality and advanced features, which have become a brand signature. If you are also interested in availing these features, browse through these used Kia cars for sale in the UAE and buy a suitable model as per your budget.
Besides, if you are looking for an SUV, here are some of the most popular Kia SUVs in the UAE that you can consider.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on Kia cars’ history.
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