Kia India, marking its fifth anniversary in the country, proudly announced reaching a major milestone of 1 million unit sales in the domestic market. Achieving this feat in just 59 months, Kia has quickly become the fastest-growing premium carmaker in India. The Kia Seltos has been a key driver of this success, representing over 48% of the company’s total domestic sales. Following the Seltos, the Sonet and Carens account for 34% and 16% of Kia India’s total domestic deliveries, respectively.
Since its debut in 2019, Kia has transformed the Indian automotive landscape with its forward-thinking technology and innovative design, becoming one of the country’s most sought-after car brands. Notably, 42% of its sales come from top trims, challenging the notion that the Indian market is solely price-sensitive. Kia’s strategic approach to product offerings and trim options has also boosted the adoption of Automatic and advanced transmission technologies in India. Currently, Kia India offers three automatic transmissions—IVT, 6AT, and 7DCT—which together make up 32% of its total sales. Additionally, the Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), introduced with the Sonet in 2020, contributes 15% to its domestic dispatches. The brand’s Petrol to Diesel ratio stands at 59%:41% currently.
Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer of Kia India, commented on the milestone: “We have consistently reached milestones in record time since our launch. These achievements are even more significant given the diverse challenges of this market and the competition from established players with decades of experience. Reaching 1 million domestic sales reflects our deep commitment to the Indian market and our understanding of its customers’ needs. I extend my sincere gratitude to all our customers for their trust in our brand, making us one of the most beloved carmakers in the country.”
He added, “Kia stands for innovation. Our cutting-edge technology, design, and in-car features continually push the boundaries not just in India but globally. This year, we will introduce our global flagships in India, followed by a new home-grown model, reaffirming our innovative spirit. India’s dynamic automotive sector is a fertile ground for growth, and with our pioneering products and services, we are poised to be a major force in advancing the Indian automotive industry.”
Kia India began with annual sales of 45,226 units in 2019, increasing to 140,505 units in 2020, 181,583 units in 2021, and 254,556 units in 2022. Last year, Kia strengthened its market presence with sales of 255,000 units. In the first seven months of 2024, Kia has sold nearly 150,000 units domestically, showing strong momentum heading into the festive season. The brand has also expanded its reach with 588 touchpoints across 256 cities.
Additionally, India serves as a significant export hub for Kia Corporation, with Kia India dispatching over 260,000 units to more than 100 export markets. Kia India’s total cumulative sales, including international shipments, have reached nearly 1.3 million units.
Content and photo: Media Kit
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