Palisade Import Sales and Reentry into Chinese SUV Market
Kia Motors Announces Mid-to-Long-Term Vision to Increase Electrified Model Share to Over 30% by 2030
[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Hyundai and Kia Motors have launched strategic models reflecting the China-exclusive technology brand 'H SMART+' in China, the world's largest automobile market, aiming to restore their pride.
On the 26th, Hyundai Motor unveiled the China-specific Avante and the new Tucson for the first time in China at the '2020 Beijing International Motor Show' held at the China International Exhibition Center (CIEC) in Beijing.
The 7th generation Avante revealed by Hyundai on this day is the second model to apply the 3rd generation platform following the Sonata introduced in the Chinese market last July, equipped with numerous cutting-edge safety and convenience features.
The new Tucson (local name Tucson L) is the 4th generation model newly introduced in the Chinese market after five years. Hyundai explained that it boasts product competitiveness beyond its class by harmonizing ▲future-oriented design through technological innovation ▲expanded space and improved driving stability and safety thanks to the application of the 3rd generation platform ▲enhanced power performance and fuel efficiency with a new powertrain ▲comfortable emotional air conditioning system and state-of-the-art infotainment features.
Hyundai also announced its global electrification vision for eco-friendly vehicles such as electric cars and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles on this day.
Albert Biermann, President of Hyundai-Kia R&D Division, said via video conference, "We plan to unveil 44 eco-friendly vehicles by 2025," adding, "We aim to achieve annual sales of 670,000 electric vehicles, including hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and become one of the world's top three electric vehicle makers."
Hyundai also revealed the racing car Elantra (domestic name Avante) N TCR for the first time worldwide and announced the launch of high-performance N models next year, including the i20 N, Kona N, and Avante N.
Hyundai will introduce the Palisade, which is popular in Korea, to China. Hyundai, which has focused on local production in China, plans to increase its market share in the Chinese SUV market through imported sales of the Palisade.
They operate a total of 35 imported car experience centers in 30 cities across China.
Meanwhile, Hyundai prepared a dedicated space introducing the China-exclusive technology brand 'H SMART+' at this motor show, showcasing Hyundai's technology vision. The H SMART+ dedicated space is composed of the Clean sector, focusing on eco-friendly technologies including the 3rd generation new platform i-GMP and dedicated electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles; the Connected sector, based on connectivity technology innovations such as Baidu 3.0 and Blue Link; and the Freedom sector, covering autonomous driving technologies, future urban mobility, and robotics business, allowing visitors to vividly experience current and future technology visions.
A Hyundai official said, "With H SMART+ technology, we plan to provide smart experiences to Chinese customers and actively target the Chinese market by leading with local strategic models," adding, "We will continue to transform the Hyundai brand image in China through tailored strategies such as securing various new car lineups and online sales services."
Kia Motors also launched its China-specific 'All New K5' and the new Carnival, stepping up its attack on the Chinese market.
The China-specific new K5 features a sporty exterior design with a Tiger Nose grille that is wider than the previous model and headlamps reminiscent of a heartbeat, creating a more sophisticated atmosphere. The interior implements an advanced image with a three-dimensional design display and a 12.3-inch large cluster (instrument panel).
Applying the 3rd generation new platform (i-GMP), it achieves weight reduction while ensuring collision safety. It is equipped with a gasoline 1.5 turbo engine featuring the world's first continuously variable valve duration (CVVD) technology, offering top power performance and fuel efficiency competitiveness.
Kia attracted attention by announcing its mid- to long-term vision for the Chinese market, including electric vehicles, at this motor show.
Kia plans to transition to an electrification business system by 2025 and aims to increase the sales ratio of electrified models to over 30% by 2030.
To this end, it is expected to enhance brand competitiveness through ▲market share growth by nurturing volume models ▲annual launches of premium vehicles ▲expansion of advanced driver assistance systems and connected technology applications.
Li Feng, General Manager (Vice President) of Dongfeng Yueda Kia, said, "Based on the new strategy, we will continue to firmly develop in the fiercely competitive Chinese automobile market," adding, "We will do our best to become a leading brand in the Chinese market with differentiated technologies and products."
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