Kia Six Fun Facts You Might Not Know

Korea International Automotive, better known as Kia, is a South Korean automaker that produces attractive, fuel-efficient, reliable, and reasonably priced vehicles. 

As you may be familiar with Kia automobiles, however, were you aware the company also produces military vehicles? Read further, as we share fun facts about Kia that you probably didn’t know.

Hyundai Owns Kia

Kia was purchased by Hyundai Motor Company and merged together in 1999.  Since that time, Hyundai and Kia have operated as one company, Hyundai Kia Automotive Group. 

Kia Stinger Is Inspired by Maserati Ghibli 

It’s difficult to resist the charm of an Italian automaker known for producing high-end vehicles. That’s why Kia’s sports sedan, Stinger, echoes the style of the Maserati Ghibli from the 70s.

Founded as a Bicycle Manufacturer

Initially established as Kyungsung Precision Industry (KPI) in 1944, Kia, like many other automakers, started in an industry unrelated to vehicles. KPI initially manufactured bicycle parts for many years before producing complete bicycles, and inevitably the Kia automotive brand.

It’s worth mentioning that KPI, now Kia, built the first Korean bicycle, called the Samchully, in 1951, marking a significant milestone in their nation’s History.

Kia Designs Are Headed by Peter Schreyer

Now President and Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, at Kia Motors, is the man to thank for the fresh style of Kia’s current line of spectacular automobile designs.

He is a well-known German vehicle designer, most known for designing the Volkswagen New Beetle and Audi TT.  Joining the Kia team in 2006. 

Manufacturer of Military Trucks

In the early 1980s, Kia became responsible for the production of military equipment. During this period, the company lacking the necessary infrastructure could not resume the manufacture of consumer automobiles. As a result, the production of passenger vehicles was abandoned in favor of military trucks. 

Later, Kia made an agreement with Ford Motor Company to produce Ford cars under license for the South Korean market. The militaristic past hasn’t been completely abandoned as Kia supplies the South Korean Military with APCs and trucks to date.

Pope Francis Approves Kia

Pope Francis is famous for choosing to drive more modest automobiles. The current leader of the Catholic Church frequently travels in a Kia Soul.

From humble beginnings, Kia has grown into one of the largest automakers in the world, familiar to families around the globe. 

To experience your brand-new Kia vehicle, Cowboy Kia’s experienced team is available to assist you from your initial inquiry to servicing your Kia. Cowboy Kia takes pride in providing their customers Kia OEM parts and accessories to meet and enhance your new vehicle needs.