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In 2006, a new manufacturing plant in Georgia was established and two years later also incorporated a new design center for its vehicles in the US. Two years later, the accumulated exports of the company reached the 5-million mark. Additionally, the company also introduced the Xtreck, Opirus, and Cerato, or popularly known as Spectra in the Asian Markets. In 2003, as an effort to reduce C02 emissions and promote a healthier and greener environment, Kia Motors launched the Global Environment Management campaign. Two years later, the accumulated production rates reach the 10 million mark and the new Regal, Optima, and Sorento made their debut at the Geneva Car Show.
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By 2000, the company began participating in motor racing and also introduced numerous motor rally cars. Towards the end of the 90s, the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group was formed, thus giving the company a reputation of class and reliability. These cars became incredibly popular that Kia was forced to increase its production capacity. In 1997, the Kia Enterprise, Shuma, and Retona were released. It was during this time that the famous Kia Elan made its debut and became a hit convertible in most European and the American markets. Kia made an amazing start to the New Year by releasing the famous Kia Credos and the Pregio truck. In 1994, the company decided to redesign its brand mark again to celebrate its 50 th anniversary and now created a sophisticated oval shape to represent the earth with the name KIA to represent the company. That same year, Kia Rocsta made its debut with other successful vehicles, such as Potentia, Sephia, Towner Coach, and Sportage. In 1992, the company founded Kia Motors America and began selling Kia-branded cars in the US. In 1989, the Capital made its debut and rocked the automotive market in South Korea. A year later, Kia released the Concord Sedan that allowed the company to gain a reputation for reliability and quality. In 1986, Kia redesigned its brand mark and extended the arm of the uppercase “K”, which symbolized the famous ‘Kia Flag’ with three rolling waves. That same year, Kia also signed a deal with Ford and sold the Avella in Australasia and North American markets as Ford Aspire and Ford Festiva. Three years later, the company’s famous Seres truck made its debut. In the 80s, Kia kept its commercial vehicle division running strong by introducing the famous Bongo Van, which was sold worldwide. Additionally, Kia also introduced numerous successful models, including the Kia Pride and the Avella. In fact, when Kia started manufacturing the Brisa only 26 cars were sold, followed by over 95,000 vehicles the next year. It was during this time that Kia also began exporting vehicles to other countries. In 1975, Kia signed an agreement with Mazda and began producing the Brisa range of cars, till 1981. Important Events in the History of Kia 1975-1985 The beginning of the Kia history Therefore, in 1974, the company finally shifted its focus from light trucks passenger cars. In 1973, after making profits, Kia opened its first automotive assembly plant called the “Sohari Plant”. However, after seeing great potential in the automotive industry, Kia shifted its attention to producing commercial vehicles and introduces numerous trucks and buses. Soon enough, Kyungsung became an incredibly popular bicycle manufacturer in Korea and in 1952, changed its name to “Kia’.įollowing the incorporation of a new company, Kia began manufacturing motorcycles and continued to do so till 1962. However, in 1951, the company decided to shift its attention to manufacturing complete bicycles. Report any suspicious activity, especially during evening or overnight hours.Ĭar theft and COVID-19: Auto theft spikes during the pandemic as cars are left unattendedĬontributing: Wyatte Grantham-Philips, USA TODAY.The company also operated one of Korea’s Chaebols and initially had gained a lot of repute with its small steel business.
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In Wisconsin: Over 11,500 vehicles were stolen across the Milwaukee area in 2021.
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