Interview with Yaser Shabsogh The VP of Commercial Operations at Kia Middle East

Which are Kia’s top markets in the Middle East and Africa?
All our markets across the Middle East are fundamental to our regional growth and success. However, our main strategic markets such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE hold significant economic importance with Kia’s targeted focus on volume, alongside Jordan and Iraq in the Levant region and South Africa and Morocco within Africa. Other markets such as Pakistan, Egypt and Algeria hold much potential, as they are undergoing foreign currency restrictions or fundamental changes to their automotive policies.

How does Kia tailor its approach to cater to the unique demands of these markets?
Kia maintains a portfolio of diverse vehicles, but our offering spans beyond just our product line-up. Our technology now includes small engines, turbo-charged engines, hybrid vehicles and all-electric vehicles. Working with our distributors, we understand the market dynamics, which models or specifications work best for each market and in what volumes. We then develop our marketing and sales strategies with our distributors to ensure our joint success.

Safety is a crucial factor for consumers. How does Kia ensure its EVs, hybrids and other vehicles are equipped with the latest safety features?
The safety of our customers while in a Kia vehicle is of utmost priority and is a key part of our strategy. Kia places a strong emphasis on safety, integrating advanced technology and stringent testing protocols across its line-up of EVs, hybrids and other vehicles. We equip our vehicles with state-of-the-art safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that are designed to mitigate accidents by providing real-time monitoring and automated responses to potential hazards. For instance, our EV9 offers advanced innovative features such as Driver Attention Warning and Surround View Monitoring.

Finally, what is your vision for Kia in the Middle East over the next decade?
Our vision is simple: To become a sustainable mobility solutions provider. Kia is achieving this in the Middle East by developing futuristic, innovative, and sustainable EVs, HEVs and ICE models. We are revolutionising transport with a sustainable business strategy that puts customers at the centre of what we do and supports the aspirations of our people for being part of a company like Kia. Over the next decade, we envision Kia leading the charge in the Middle East’s transition to electric. Our goal is to consistently deliver advanced innovation and technology that meets and exceeds our customers’ expectations. Kia’s portfolio of vehicles will continue to offer exceptional performance, advanced safety, and an unmatched driving experience without compromising on sustainability values.

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