Incoming Kia PH President to bolster Ayala’s electrification push

Kia Philippines Motor Corporation (KPMC) announced the leadership appointment of Brian Buendia starting July 1.

From left to right: Manny Aligada, Brian Buendia

Brian Buendia has been with AC Motors, the parent company of KPMC, since 1998. This has earned Buendia an extensive career experience in sales, business development, and network operations. He will succeed Manny Aligada, who led the company since late 2018.

“The challenges facing Kia in the Philippines are daunting. But, they are also opportunities that will inspire us to elevate this world-class brand to even greater heights in the local market. We will be stepping up our efforts to become an even more relevant player in the industry,” said Buendia.

The incoming president aims to put Kia's electrified products on the map

Under Buendia, the Kia will bolster Ayala Corporation’s commitment to growing the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in the country. One initiative is increasing the number of EV charging stations, which should pave the way to encouraging more Filipinos to own electric cars.

Speaking of which, the company is offering the Kia EV6 in the country. Launched last March with Aligada still at the helm, the EV6 is the brand’s entry into the EV market. It is available in the GT-Line variant only priced at Php 3,788,000.

Kia EV9

For the price, the EV brings an electric powertrain capable of generating 226 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. In terms of range, Kia Philippines claims the EV6 can run up to 582 km on a single charge. It can also be powered up to 80 percent in just 18 minutes using a DC fast charger. 

“It is an honor to have served our internal and external stakeholders who have continuously supported Kia, enabling it to be among the best-selling brands in the country,” said Aligada. “And it is with such pride when I say that Kia Philippines set the ideal tone in starting our path to a sustainable future of mobility by introducing the multi-awarded EV6 as the ultra-modern face of Kia with its innovation and technology features.”

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