(From left: President of AC Motors Automobile Group, Mr. Toti Zara, Outgoing President of Kia Philippines, Mr. Manny Aligada and Chief Operating Officer of Kia Philippines, Mr. Brian Buendia)
EXPANDING THE MARKET AND SERVICE COVERAGE
The entire Philippine automotive market recovered and finished strong in 2022 closing at 370,000 units sold. The 2023 outlook is 10% growth and comparable to pre-pandemic levels of 400,000 units sold.
Kia Philippines is set to outpace industry growth in 2023 by double digits. Its position in the industry rankings will be fortified by the introduction of new models and the further strengthening of the distribution network. By 2024, Kia will expand its network to 50 full-operating dealerships nationwide.
The Kia brand will be further recognized in the critical mainstream segments with the scheduled arrival of new models. As aligned with Kia’s global strategy, NEVs will be introduced, together with mainstream Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models, to further strengthen the line-up. Globally, Kia plans to have 15 EVs in its lineup by 2027.
Considering the availability of key models, sales are estimated to increase towards the second half of 2023. The Stonic remains the volume driver model with 49%. Followed by the Soluto and K2500. Kia grew 19% versus the same period last year, despite supply limitations.
LEADING THE LOCAL EV REVOLUTION
Kia Philippines is already poised to grow an even larger share in the local EV segment because of the recent launch of the EV6. The brand will also take advantage of the current incentives for EVs, which include exemption from excise taxes until early 2028; a 30% discount on MV users’ charges on registration, inspection, and renewal; and more infrastructure dedicated to EV parking and charging slots. With this confidence comes the commitment that Kia Philippines will introduce additional EVs.
By 2027, 14% of total automobile sales is forecasted to belong to EVs. Given these trends, electric mobility plays a huge role in the strategy of Kia Philippines. Globally, all Kia vehicles undergo sustainable design development while keeping with Kia’s “Opposites-united” design philosophy which expands the use of recycled plastics and the application of eco-friendly materials.
KIA PHILIPPINES AND THE FUTURE
With Buendia’s background and experience in sales, business development and network operations, Kia Philippines is confident in his ability to anticipate and carry out crucial brand and market executions for Kia in the future. “Kia Philippines is already a major player in the local industry as well as in the region,” says Buendia.
“Kia Philippines became one of the fastest-growing car brands locally and was also recognized by Kia Asia Pacific (K-APAC) for achieving the highest growth rate in the region, as well as being the number one independent distributor in retail sales in 2022. I will build upon these accolades to further steer Kia Philippines to greater success.”