Latest news with #auto market
Gulf Business
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Business
Kia eyeing broader EV, PBV expansion, says Ahmed Soudodi
Image: Supplied With the launch of the K4 compact sedan and Tasman pickup, Kia is positioning itself for deeper relevance in the Middle East's fast-shifting auto market — from design-led sedans challenging SUV dominance to rugged pickups blending utility with comfort. In an interview, Ahmed Soudodi, VP of Product & Marketing for You've launched the new K4 globally and in the US. Can we expect it in the region? Yes, absolutely. We're still finalisng the market rollout timeline, but our intention is to bring the K4 to the region. The K4 offers something refreshing in a world dominated by SUVs. Not every consumer wants an SUV. The K4 appeals to buyers who value sleek design, tech features, and practicality in a compact sedan format. We see strong potential for it among young professionals and families in the Middle East. What makes the K4 a compelling proposition for this region? It's bold and dynamic in design, loaded with advanced connectivity, and offers great value. The cabin experience and tech stack are really where it shines — large curved displays, OTA updates, and a refined layout. These are features Middle East customers now expect even in non-premium segments. The K4 answers that demand. What about the new Tasman pickup — will it come to the Middle East? Yes. We're very excited about the Tasman and can confirm it will be part of our offering in the region. The pickup segment in the Middle East is evolving, especially with more urban users seeking trucks for both work and leisure. The Tasman isn't just rugged, it's versatile. It combines the practicality of a utility truck with comfort and features for everyday driving. Image courtesy: Do you see off-road and desert culture influencing your strategy? Without question. Off-roading is embedded in the lifestyle here, and that's shaping how we approach product development and positioning. Whether it's SUVs or trucks, we're factoring in durability, terrain capability, and visual presence. But customers also want tech, safety, and refinement. That's the sweet spot we're targeting. How is Kia building its electric vehicle lineup in the region? Our EV strategy is rapidly evolving. We've already introduced the EV6 and EV9, and next up are the EV3 and EV5. These models will cater to broader price segments and market needs. The EV3, in particular, is a compact electric SUV with a lot of appeal for urban buyers. We're also focused on ecosystem partnerships, from charging infrastructure to service, so that adoption becomes seamless. Kia's also been talking about PBVs. What's the plan there? PBVs, or purpose-built vehicles, are central to our long-term mobility vision. The Middle East is very relevant for this because of smart city developments and logistics growth. Our PV5, the first dedicated PBV, will cater to fleet operators, ride-hailing, and delivery services. What makes it unique is its modular interior and flexibility — it's a tech-enabled workhorse. And because we're building it on a scalable architecture, we can quickly adapt based on market needs. Read:
Reuters
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Reuters
China plans crackdown on zero-mileage used car sales
SHANGHAI, July 19 (Reuters) - China's industry ministry is planning to ban the resale of cars within six months of their initial registration as part of efforts to combat sales of so-called zero-mileage used cars, an industry association publication reported on Saturday. Zero-mileage used cars have emerged in China as a result of the uniquely cutthroat competition for sales in the world's largest auto market, which is reeling from a brutal, years-long price war caused by chronic overcapacity. The practice involves insuring a new vehicle before it is sold, allowing automakers and their dealers to meet sales targets. But it can create hassles for customers. Auto Review, a publication run by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, reported the plan in an editorial published on its WeChat account. It said that the China Automobile Dealers Association, another industry group, had separately proposed a code system for exports of used cars. The editorial added that Chery and BYD ( opens new tab, were among companies planning to hold dealers accountable for violations, including licensing cars before they are sold. The measures, if enforced, would mark the first policy action taken by the Chinese government to stop the practice, which became a nationwide issue after Great Wall Motor ( opens new tab CEO Wei Jianjun called it out in May. Since then, there have been several signs China's central government was preparing a crackdown, from a Communist Party newspaper condemning zero-mileage used cars last month to the country's cabinet pledging on Friday that it would control "irrational" competition in the domestic auto industry.
