Kia hybrid sales to double but EV targets cut
Kia hybrid sales are expected to double by 2030 but the brand has cut its EV targets by 340,000 units.
The brand has announced that it now aims to sell 1.26 million EVs by the end of the decade, contributing to global sales of 4.19 million units.
However, it will still launch 15 new EV models by 2030, including three electric vans.
Instead, the brand is turning its focus on hybrid sales and it targeting more than a million sales by 2030, which is more than double the 490,000 units forecast this year. It will increase its hybrid range across all segments, from compact to full-size vehicles.
For UK retailers, the hybrid and EV shift will be backed by regionalised production to improve supply and responsiveness. Europe will become the production centre for compact SUVs and hatchbacks, aligning with UK market preferences, while North America will specialise in mid-to-large SUVs, and India in value-focused compact SUVs. Korea will remain the global hub for EV innovation.
Meanwhile, the company will retain manufacturing flexibility by continuing to build ICE, hybrid, and EV models across 13 existing plants, while increasing efficiency with two new dedicated EV facilities.
