
Kia plans to release a pickup truck for American consumers in the coming years, as the South Korean automaker plots continued growth domestically and globally.
The company said Thursday it will add a pickup truck that includes hybrid variants by 2030 as a major expansion of its brand into the highly lucrative U.S. market. At least one hybrid variant is expected to be produced in the U.S., according to a presentation from Kia's CEO investor day.
Detroit automakers General Motors , Ford Motor and Chrysler parent Stellantis dominate U.S. full-size pickup truck sales, however Kia reportedly plans to have its pickup be a smaller, midsize model.
That would position the vehicle against the industry-leading Toyota Tacoma as well as the Ford Ranger and GM's Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, among other entrants.
"Accounting for approximately 20% of total demand, the U.S. pickup market represents a key strategic segment. Given its strategic importance, Kia will launch a new Body-on-Frame pickup model to broaden our customer base," Kia CEO Ho Sung Song said, according to the presentation.