Kia
The vehicle manufacturer Kia’s name is derived from the Korean words “ki” and “a”. “Ki” means to come out of and “a” means Asia. Kia essentially means “to come out of Asia.” Kia is South Korea’s oldest car company. Originally Kia was known for producing bicycles and steel tubing.
Beginning in 1957, Kia built motorcycles, trucks in 1964 and later cars in 1974. In a partnership with Ford, Kia produced a few Mazda derived vehicles. Later on, in 1992, Kia was incorporated in the United States. The Sephia was sold throughout the United States one region at a time.
A few years later, the Sportage was added to the line. In 1997, the company was forced into bankruptcy as part of the Asian financial crisis. As a result, fifty one percent of the company was sold to Hyundai Motor Company. The Kia Cars brand was the eighth best-selling automotive brand in 2009.
Although there are a minimal amount of models available, Kia continues to develop new and innovative vehicles. Kia’s new crossover vehicle, the Sorento, is scheduled for release in 2011. |