Kia America announced that it has launched production of its Sportage Hybrid SUV at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) in Savannah, in the US state of Georgia. The US unit of South Korean automaker Kia Corporation pointed out that the Sportage Hybrid is the first Kia model to be produced at the recently-built HMGMA plant, joining the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 battery electric vehicles (BEVs), which went into production in the last two years.

The Sportage Hybrid is also the first hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) model to be produced at the facility, which was originally designated for the production of Hyundai and Kia battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Kia also has a dedicated plant located in West Point, Georgia, which assembles the popular Telluride SUV, the EV9 and EV6 BEVs, and internal combustion engine (ICE) versions of the Sportage and Sorento SUVs. 

Kia said the HMGMA plant’s newly expanded line-up “demonstrates Hyundai Motor Group’s comprehensive powertrain capabilities. This production flexibility was built into HMGMA’s original design, enabling seamless integration of different powertrains with minimal modifications,” adding that the plant can produce up to ten different models.

Sean Yoon, CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, said in a statement: “This marks a very important event for Kia in the state of Georgia and for our customers across the US. The Metaplant in Savannah is our second major investment in Georgia and is a clear testament to our confidence in this state’s future as an automotive powerhouse. We have great confidence that the Metaplant will continue the strong momentum that the Sportage Hybrid has achieved since it was updated last year, helping it to quickly become one of our highest volume models.”

Tony Heo, CEO of HMGMA, said: “This is an exciting moment for all of us at HMGMA. Through the dedication of our Meta Pros and the strength of our flexible manufacturing system, we have successfully prepared to produce our first hybrid vehicle and our first Kia model. Today represents an important next step as we continue building the future of mobility through world-class manufacturing here in Georgia.”

Kia pointed out that with the launch of production of the Sportage Hybrid in Savannah, it has “expanded the number of SUVs produced for and sold within the US market and has further accelerated the electrification of its entire line-up.”