Kia Motors formally introduced it's new environmental brand 'Eco Dynamics' as part of its commitment to usher in the era of earth-positive vehicles.
The Eco Dynmaics badge was revealed at Kia Motors' domestic sales headquarters in Apkujeong-dong, Seoul, along with the company's blueprint for developing low-emission, fuel-efficient vehicles.
The new brand communicates Kia's unique strategy and vision for vehicles with reduced environmental footprint. Furthermore, it reflects the determination of Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group to propel Korea into one of the world's four leading producers of green cars by expanding investments into eco-friendly vehicles and R&D.
'Eco' represents Kia's commitment to making cars that have a minimal impact on nature and environment (ecology) while offering drivers cost-saving benefits (economy). 'Dynamics' corresponds to energy and driving force. The Eco Dynamics brand symbolizes Kia's dedication to creating a sustainable future.
The announcement of the green label also signifies the adoption of environmental management as a new growth strategy for Kia, in addition to the previously adopted quality management (1999) and design management (2006).
Vehicles with new, environmental technologies including hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, will be identified with the unique Eco Dynamics badge.
100 people attended the unveiling of the Eco Dynamics brand, including yang Woong-chul, president of R&D at Kia Motors, Kim Chung-ho, president of domestics sales at Kia motors, Lee Ki-sang, head of hybrid development at Kia Motors, professor Kim Pil-soo of Department of Automotive Engineering at Daelim College and experts from the environment fields.
In an opening speech, Mr Yang said, "We are focusing our efforts on developing environmentally-friendly cars in line with global trends. By continuing to bolster our ability to develop eco-technologies, Kia will contribute to the national vision of low-carbon growth and nurture Korea into one of the world's four leading producers of green cars".
In addition to the unveiling of the Eco Dynamics brand, Kia Motors revealed its status and vision for environmental technology development, plans for environmental marketing, and mid - to long term plans for developing green vehicles.
Following the 2008 introduction of Lotze Innovation which was Korea's first application of the eco-driving system, Kia showcased the C'eed ISG model early this year in Europe. The ISG (Idle Stop and Go) features an auto start-stop system for enhanced fuel efficiency and was applied to the C'eed in a first for a Korean car. Kia will unveil its first hybrid vehicle, the Forte (Cerato) LPI hybrid, this August.
Kia plans to introduce a mid-sized, full hybrid vehicle in 2011 and follow up with early commercialization of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle 2012.
The company will set up a separate 'Eco Dynamics Zone' at the Seoul Motor Show 2009 and other domestic and international motor shows to display its fleet of hybrid vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, as well as new engines and technology.