Kia steps into new chapter

Brian Buendia, who has been with AC Motors—the automotive arm of Ayala Corporation (AC)—since 1998, formally assumed the chief operating officer position for Kia Philippines Motor Corporation (KPMC) last week to lead “Kia PH’s Movement That Inspires” into a new phase.

“Dynamic, innovative, and inspiring. These are the pillars upon which my vision for Kia Philippines is based,” says Buendia. “We will refine the Kia buying and ownership experience by bringing our corporate identity and culture to the fore; strengthen our industry rankings through the introduction of new and exciting models; expand our already growing nationwide dealership network; and, establish Kia as a major player in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market through our EV6 and future new energy vehicle (NEV) models.”

Although the drive to a sustainable future of mobility has already begun with the introduction of the multi-awarded EV6 as the ultra-modern face of Kia with its innovation and technology features, Buendia showed a roadmap to an even more dynamic, innovative, and inspiring future for the Kia brand during a media roundtable held at the AC Centrale in Bonifacio Global Center. 

To improve the customer experience and lessen downtime when a vehicle is in need of service or emergency repairs, parts availability will be enhanced thanks to a new partnership with Entrego. On Time Delivery for emergency parts within the Metro Manila network is also Kia’s commitment. 

Kia Philippines is also committed to continuously improve the skills of its sales and aftersales personnel with regular dealer manpower training through certification programs and audits. Key among these programs is the Kia National Skills Cup. Kia’s 2022 National Skills Cup champion is now in Korea to represent the Philippines in the 6th Kia Service Advisor World Competition.

Kia Philippines is set to outpace industry growth in 2023 by double digits. Its position in the industry rankings will be fortified by the introduction of new models and the further strengthening of the distribution network. By 2024, Kia will expand its network to 50 full-operating dealerships nationwide.

The Kia brand will be further recognized in the critical mainstream segments with the scheduled arrival of new models. As aligned with Kia’s global strategy, NEVs will be introduced, together with mainstream Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models, to further strengthen the line-up. Globally, Kia plans to have 15 EVs in its lineup by 2027. 

Considering the availability of key models, sales are estimated to increase towards the second half of 2023. The Stonic remains the volume driver model with 49%. Followed by the Soluto and K2500. Kia grew 19% versus the same period last year, despite supply limitations.