April 19, 2024

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 [THE INVESTOR] Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors are planning to launch 10 new eco-friendly vehicles by 2020 in China, according to a local news report on Nov. 27. 

Korea’s largest carmaker Hyundai, which launched its first electric model Yuedong EV in China earlier in August, plans to roll out five more in the next three years, in an attempt to boost its eco-friendly lineup in the world’s largest car market. 

They include Sonata PHEV, which is expected to hit the market next year, following its Korean debut in July. 

Hyundai will likely roll out Ioniq EV and Ioniq PHEV next year as well. 

Yuedong EV

Its smaller affiliate Kia also plans to introduce five eco-friendly models by 2020, following its EV debut this year. Kia released Horqi 300E sedan last month, which boasts a 265 kilometer-range on a single charge. Horqi is a sub-brand of its Chinese JV Dongfeng Yueda Kia. 

Citing Dongfeng Yueda Kia officials, the report noted that the carmaker plans to release five additional eco-friendly models, including 2 PHEVs and 3 EVs -- two SUVs and one sedan. 

The new lineup includes a PHEV version of popular K5 sedan, which will likely debut early next year. 

Industry watchers project Kia will also introduce the EV version of KX3 compact SUV, which now only sells a gasoline version. 

The carmaker, which plans to unveil Niro EV next year, is expected to launch the model in China too.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)