Kia History from St. Petersburg Kia Dealer

Apr 23, 2013

Kia has a long and interesting history as an automobile manufacturer. In fact, Kia was founded in 1944 in Korea, and was called Kia Motors Corporation. In Korean, Kia means “to arise to the world from Asia”. The modern company of Kia is part of Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, with dealerships all over the world – including your St. Petersburg Kia dealer in Florida. American Kia vehicles are sold under the brand name of Kia Motors America (KMA).

Kia is Worldwide

Kia is found all over the world, with more than 1.5 million Kia vehicles produced each year in over 13 manufacturing facilities located in 8 countries. There are Kia dealerships selling vehicles in 172 different countries.

Kia Motors America

In 1992, Kia Motors America was incorporated. They opened their first 4 dealerships in Oregon and began with the Kia Sephia. Soon after, Kia Sportage was introduced. Every year, Kia grew and dealerships were added in other states and by 1995, there were over 100 Kia dealerships in 30 states.

Financial Troubles for Kia

Asia experienced a financial crises in 1997, and it was during this time that Kia declared bankruptcy. Hyundai Motor Company purchased 51% of the company, winning in a bidding war with Ford Motor Company who had owned part of Kia since 1986 but Hyundai won out and took over in 1998. Over the years that followed, Kia recovered financially and Hyundai now owns less than half ownership of Kia.

Design Improvements Fuel Growth for Kia

In 2006, Kia decided they needed some new designs if they were going to continue to grow and succeed in the marketplace. They brought in a new Chief Design Officer who had won awards for his previous designs in Germany working for Volkswagen and Audi. Peter Schreyer began working with Kia in 2006 and oversaw design activities in Kia design centers located in Los Angeles, Tokyo, Germany and Korea. He was instrumental in the new look for Kia, and the establishment of the signature Kia look, the brand that is easily recognized by the “tiger nose” design of the front end of Kia vehicles.

Test Drive Kia Vehicles

You can learn more about any of our Kia vehicles and take them for a test drive to find the one that matches your needs perfectly. Visit your St. Petersburg Kia dealership for a test drive appointment or to learn more about Kia.