Kia India Reaches 1 Lakh CKD Export Milestone
Kia India has achieved a significant milestone, exporting 1,00,000 Completely Knocked Down (CKD) units since starting shipments in June 2020 from its Anantapur manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. This accomplishment underscores the company’s commitment to positioning India as a vital hub for its global operations, both in terms of production and exports.
Strengthening India’s Role in Global Markets
Kia India accounts for 50% of Kia Corporation’s global CKD exports, highlighting the critical role its Indian operations play in the company’s international strategy. The CKD vehicles, which are assembled at their destination markets, currently cater to countries including Uzbekistan, Ecuador, and Vietnam. The company plans to export over 38,000 CKD units in 2024 alone, solidifying India’s position as a global manufacturing and export hub.
Focus on Popular Models
The Seltos, Sonet, and Carens are the models driving Kia’s export success. These vehicles are designed to meet diverse market needs, offering a blend of design, performance, and value. Their success internationally reflects Kia’s focus on producing globally relevant vehicles that are adaptable to various market demands while maintaining competitive pricing.
Future Expansion Plans
Kia India is targeting the Middle East and African markets as part of its expansion strategy. The company plans to double its CKD export volumes by 2030, signaling its intention to scale operations significantly. This growth aligns with India’s rising prominence in the global automotive value chain, driven by favorable government policies that support manufacturing and exports.
Commentary on Achievement
Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer at Kia India, stated that this milestone highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and manufacturing excellence. He also credited government policies for strengthening India’s position in the global automotive landscape. The achievement builds upon Kia India’s cumulative export figure of 3.67 lakh units, which includes both CKD and completely built-up (CBU) exports.