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Kia Motors factory in US marks production of 2 millionth vehicle

March 29, 2016

(Yonhap) — The Kia Motors factory in the United States on Tuesday celebrated the production of its 2 millionth vehicle after opening in 2009.

With the production of a white Sorento SUV, the factory in the state of Georgia reached the 2 million vehicle feat in the shortest time ever for an overseas Kia factory.

The factory began mass production in November 2009 and now produces more than 40 percent of all Kia vehicles sold in the U.S.

“Assembling two million vehicles in less than seven years is a remarkable achievement, and one that each of our team members can take a lot of pride in,” said Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia President and CEO Shin Hyun-jong in a statement.

“The world-class quality that goes into every Sorento SUV and Optima midsize sedan we build is a direct result of the hard work and commitment of our team members, and today we salute their commitment to excellence.”

Together with on-site and local suppliers, the factory is responsible for the creation of more than 15,000 jobs in West Point and the surrounding region, the company said.

“Together, Kia and Georgia have a strong reputation of success,” Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal said in the statement. “The company’s continued investment in the state speaks volumes to our pro-business atmosphere, and we will continue to support them as they grow here.”