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Kia, based in Seoul, South Korea, designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of automobiles globally, including passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and electric vehicles. Initially established to produce steel tubing and bicycle parts, the company expanded into motorcycles and licensed vehicles before developing its own models, eventually becoming part of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, which was the world's fifth-biggest car maker by 1998. Its global reach is significant, with overseas sales exceeding 50 million units as of 2013, and early exports to the US in 1987 quickly surpassed $100 million. Key leadership includes Chairman Chung Eui-sun, President and CEO Song Ho-Sung, and Chief Design Officer Karim Habib. Kia was founded in 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry; no specific founder is named.
Key people at Kia.
Kia Corporation designs, manufactures, and sells a range of vehicles, evolving beyond traditional automotive production to encompass sustainable mobility solutions and services. The company develops dedicated battery electric vehicles and purpose-built vehicles for diverse applications, alongside car-sharing and other integrated mobility offerings. This strategic shift leverages advanced platforms and technologies to provide flexible transportation options for individuals and businesses globally.
The company originated in 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry, establishing itself as a pioneer in South Korea's transportation sector. Initially focused on producing bicycles, the company soon expanded its manufacturing to include motorcycles. This foundational experience in personal mobility laid the groundwork for its eventual transition into automobile production, driven by a longstanding commitment to enabling movement and connection.
Kia serves a broad global customer base, from individual consumers to corporate and fleet clients seeking advanced transport solutions. Its long-term vision, encapsulated by the slogan "Movement that inspires," centers on creating accessible and sustainable mobility, fostering human progress, and enriching lives by providing innovative products and services that save time and inspire new experiences.
Kia has 2 tracked investments across 2 companies. The latest tracked deal is $89.8M Other Equity in Rimac Automobili in May 2019.
| Date | Company | Round | Lead Investor(s) | Co-Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 14, 2019 | Rimac Automobili | $89.8M Other Equity | Thomas Schemera, KIA | — |
| Sep 29, 2016 | Apttus | $88.0M Series D | — | Gulf Islamic Investments, ICONIQ Growth, K1 Investment Management |
