Kia begins Sportage hybrid production at US plant

Kia has officially commenced production of its Sportage hybrid SUV at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Georgia, United States. The automaker celebrated the milestone with a commemorative event at the plant on Tuesday, local time.

This production launch signifies a significant step for both Kia and the HMGMA facility. The Sportage hybrid is not only the first Kia model to be manufactured at the Georgia plant but also the first hybrid vehicle to roll off its assembly lines. This diversification of production at HMGMA highlights the plant's capability to handle various vehicle types and powertrains.

The HMGMA facility, a major investment by the Hyundai Motor Group, is designed to be a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub. While it will now produce Kia's Sportage hybrid, the plant is also responsible for manufacturing other key models for the group, including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 electric vehicles. The integration of Kia's production into the HMGMA underscores the group's strategy for synergistic manufacturing operations across its brands in North America.