South Korea’s Hyundai Motor and Kia have set a combined global sales goal of 7.51 million units for 2026, a 3.2% rise from last year’s 7.27 million.
The two companies, forming the world’s third-biggest carmaker group, saw only 0.6% growth in 2025, boosted mainly by strong hybrid demand in the U.S. after electric vehicle incentives ended.
Strong U.S. Performance Drives Hyundai
North America now generates about 40% of Hyundai’s revenue. The brand marked its fifth straight year of record U.S. retail sales in 2025:
- 30% of sales from electrified models
- Hybrid volume up 36%
- EV volume up 7%
Hyundai alone aims for 4.16 million units in 2026, topping its actual 4.14 million in 2025.
Building for the Future
To hit targets amid tariffs and changing buyer tastes, both brands are adjusting production:
- New EV factory opening in Ulsan, South Korea
- Additional plant in Pune, India
- Goal of producing over 80% of U.S.-sold vehicles locally by 2030
Kia Eyes Bigger Gains
Kia plans to capitalise on models like the refreshed Telluride, made in the U.S. to avoid import duties and keep prices sharp. The company also wants to grow EV sales in Europe.
Hyundai and Kia are betting on hybrids and local manufacturing to challenge leaders like Toyota (nearly 50% U.S. hybrid share) while Hyundai holds 13%.
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