KG Mobility, formerly known as SsangYong Motor, has entered a strategic partnership with Chinese automaker BYD to develop future electrified models. The agreement is the brand’s response to the growing electric vehicle (EV) market.
KG Mobility inks partnership with BYD [Photo: KG Mobility]
Under the partnership, KG Mobility will utilize BYD’s battery pack technology starting with the Torres EVX and a new all-electric pickup truck – which will be produced in the second half of 2024. The Korean automaker added the said technology will be used in other applicable vehicle models as well.
"KG Mobility embarked on a journey of change and development as a mobility company by changing its name last March. We started with the launch of the Torres EVX, aimed at providing safe, affordable, high-performance electric vehicles meeting the needs of our customers,” said KG Mobility Chairman Kwak Jae-Seon.
BYD is one of the top-selling EV brands in the world with models like the Han, Tan, and Dolphin. In our previous report, the automaker is close to surpassing Tesla as the global leader in EV sales with 431,603 units sold (Tesla sold 435,059 units) in the third quarter of this year.
KG Mobility Torres EVX
Apart from EVs, the partnership also looks to roll out hybrid models by 2025. Plans for plug-in hybrids are also said to be in the works – which would be an ideal choice for those who are looking to make the transition to EVs.
"This collaboration is especially significant as it allows us to secure future competitiveness by ensuring a stable supply of core components and developing new vehicles with cutting-edge electrical/electronic integration technologies,” said KG Mobility CEO Jeong Yong-won.
Here in the Philippines, The Covenant Car Company was appointed as the new distributor for KG Mobility last month. Meanwhile, AC Motor was tapped to become BYD’s Philippine distributor. Previous distributor Solar Transport was instead tasked to manage the brand’s dealership operation in the country.
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