Expanding research and development in Australia: Proposal for a new base by Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis, aimed at innovating next-generation electric and hybrid utility vehicles and sports utility vehicles (utes and SUVs).
In a significant move, Kia Australia has announced plans to establish a new research and development centre in Sydney, aiming to bolster their presence in the utes and 4x4 vehicle market. This centre will be a shared facility, accessible to all three Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) brands - Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis.
The announcement comes following Kia's unveiling of the electrified concept, the X Gran Equator, a Range Rover-rivaling off-roader. Kia Australia's new centre is expected to focus on developing HMG's next generation of hybrid and battery electric vehicles for remote, rugged, and off-road driving.
The centre's development is part of Kia Australia's Tasman program, a new level of cooperation with the Namyang technical center in South Korea. Through this program, Kia Australia has been learning various aspects from the Namyang technical center, including water wading and side-by-side accessory development. This knowledge has been instrumental in the launch of the Kia Tasman diesel ute, with a seven-seat SUV spin-off expected to follow.
Hyundai Australia, too, is aiming to strengthen its presence in the utes and 4x4 vehicle market. The company has promised a dual cab ute with an electrified powertrain before the end of the decade.
The new centre's focus will extend beyond electric and hybrid vehicles. It is expected to include durability, rough road, off-road, and 4x4 capabilities, as well as V2G (Vehicle 2 Grid) capability development. The centre will also be responsible for training staff for the Asia-Pacific region.
Kia Australia has been localising ride, handling, and steering for most models sold in Australia since 2010. This localisation effort, coupled with the new technology centre, is intended to help Kia and Hyundai market themselves as local brands in Australia.
Interestingly, Hyundai had a similar program but rolled it back a few years ago. Toyota, GWM, and Ford have established bases in Australia for vehicle testing and development, with Ford having the biggest design and engineering footprint.
The idea for the new technology centre remains undisclosed, with the search results not providing information on the person or organization who developed the concept. However, one thing is clear - this new centre is a significant step forward in Kia and Hyundai's efforts to compete in the Australian utes and 4x4 vehicle market.
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