Kia defies 'EV chasm' to report record annual revenue, operating profit

By Kim Dong-young Posted : January 24, 2025, 16:02 Updated : January 24, 2025, 16:02
Kia headquarters Courtesy of Kia
Kia headquarters/ Courtesy of Kia Corp.
 
SEOUL, January 24 (AJP) - Kia Corp. achieved its highest-ever annual revenue and operating profit in 2024, surpassing 100 trillion won ($69.8 billion) in sales for the first time in its history, the company announced Friday.

The automaker posted an operating profit of 12.67 trillion won, a 9.1 percent increase from the previous year, while revenue climbed 7.7 percent to 107.45 trillion won. Net profit surged 11.5 percent to 9.79 trillion won, driven by robust demand in North America and emerging markets.

Kia’s operating profit margin also reached a record 11.8 percent, underscoring its profitability amid industry uncertainties.

Global sales edged up 0.1 percent to approximately 3.09 million vehicles, marking the highest figure since the company’s founding. Despite obstacles in the EV market - including what analysts term the “market chasm” - Kia’s green vehicle sales rose 10.9 percent to about 638,000 units.

Hybrid models led the growth, with sales up 20 percent year-on-year to 367,000 units. EV sales increased by 10.2 percent to 201,000 units, while plug-in hybrid sales declined 19.5 percent to 71,000 units.

Looking ahead, Kia aims to sell 3.22 million vehicles globally in 2025, representing a 4.1 percent increase from 2024.

To solidify its presence in North America and Europe, Kia plans to introduce new models such as its first cargo truck, the Tasman, and the purpose-built PV5 vehicle, designed for versatile applications. Domestically, Kia intends to strengthen its foothold with the launch of the EV4 sedan and EV5 SUV, rounding out its mainstream EV lineup.
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