Kia PH announces leader transition

By: Tomas de los Reyes

Forecasts several impactful and innovative new models as they enter a new era.

Kia Philippines Motor Corporation (KPMC) has a new man in charge, ushering in a new chapter filled with promise and further growth. Brian Buendia, who has served AC Motors since 1998 and who takes over the outgoing KPMC president Manny Aligada, is the company’s new Chief Operating Officer and will take charge of Kia Philippines’ “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,” Buendia added.

With products like the multi-awarded EV6 being the brand’s new face for a sustainable future of mobility, here are the various aspects Kia looks to embody for an even more dynamic, innovative and inspiring future under this new leadership.

More units sold and expanded dealership network

Kia’s position in the industry rankings will be fortified by the introduction of new models and the further strengthening of the distribution network, as 50 fully operating dealerships nationwide will be set by 2024.

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. The arrival of these new models will all be factors that will push the Kia brand to be further recognized in the critical mainstream segments.

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. Considering the availability of key models, sales are estimated to increase towards the second half of 2023. 

Revolutionizing the local EV scene

Even with the introduction of the EV6, Kia Philippines aims to grow an even larger share of the local EV segment as they look to take advantage of the many current incentives for EVs put in place by the government. With this confidence comes the commitment that Kia Philippines will introduce additional EVs.

By 2027, 14% of total automobile sales is forecast to belong to EVs. Given these trends, electric mobility plays a huge role in the strategy of Kia Philippines. Globally, all Kia vehicles undergo sustainable design development while keeping with Kia’s “Opposites-united” design philosophy which expands the use of recycled plastics and the application of eco-friendly materials.

Enhanced service and customer experience

The dedication to exceptional service and a pleasurable customer experience from the showroom to the service bay is what the brand promises to its valued customers.

Having newly partnered with Entrego will greatly improve customer experience and lessen downtime for a quicker-than-ever service. On Time Delivery for emergency parts within Metro Manila and a massive parts warehouse mean customers can be assured of swift parts availability.

Kia Philippines is also committed to continuously improving the skills of its sales and aftersales personnel. Key among these programs is the Kia National Skills Cup, a dealer-wide competition showcasing the skillfulness of Kia’s aftersales department and its mission to deliver the best experience to its customers. 

What to expect from Kia Philippines moving forward

With Buendia’s background and experience in sales, business development and network operations, Kia Philippines is confident in his ability to anticipate and carry out crucial brand and market executions for Kia in the future. “Kia Philippines is already a major player in the local industry as well as in the region,” says Buendia. 

“Kia Philippines became one of the fastest-growing car brands locally and was also recognized by Kia Asia Pacific (K-APAC) for achieving the highest growth rate in the region, as well as being the number one independent distributor in retail sales in 2022. I will build upon these accolades to further steer Kia Philippines to greater success,” he concluded.