Kia Motors firms up sales strategy ahead of India launch

South Korean auto firm Kia Motors Co. will hold road shows in August and September to identify prospective dealer partners before the company launches its India operations in the second half of 2019. “Dealers attending each event in the roadshow calendar will also learn about Kia’s business strategy and the company’s plans for establishing its new Indian dealer network,” the company said. “India is a unique market, and it’s important to Kia that we learn from those who have a deep understanding of local buyers and their needs. Like other regions where Kia already has a presence, we will offer Indian customers the highest levels of satisfaction. Our dealer partners hold the key to achieving this aim,” Yong S. Kim, head of sales and marketing at Kia Motors India, said. Kia Motors also launched its India website which hosts information about the road shows to be held in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata and New Delhi. In April, Kia signed a memorandum of understanding with the Andhra Pradesh government to build a manufacturing facility in Anantapur district. The facility will come at an investment of $1.1 billion and its construction is due to commence in the December quarter. Kia plans to produce a compact sedan and a compact SUV especially for the Indian market.