Kia names new global president to drive its electric and autonomous ambitions

SEOUL: Kia Motors today named Ho-sung Song as its president.

Kia's global operations division chief replaces Han-woo Park, who will move on to an advisory role in the company.

In his new capacity, Song will lead the advancement of "Plan S", the company’s mid- to long-term strategy aimed at establishing a leadership position in the future automotive industry.
Kia said in a statement that Song’s extensive experience across the automotive value chain as well as his expertise in overseas operations will be tremendous assets in the company’s transition to future businesses, which will include electric vehicles and mobility solutions.

Song had previously been the president of Kia Motors Europe
and Head of Kia Motors Corporation Export Planning Group.

Kia’s Plan S strategy targets a shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles from a business system based on internal combustion engine vehicles.

By the end of 2025, the company plans to offer a full line-up of 11 battery electric vehicles.

With these models, Kia is looking to achieve a 6.6% share of the global EV market (excluding China), while also attaining a 25% share of its sales from its eco-friendly cars.