KG Mobility's Bold Leap: 7 New Cars by 2030 and the Drive for Future Mobility

KG Mobility's Grand Transformation: A New Era Begins

Did you know KG Mobility (KGM) is making a massive leap into the future? At the recent 'KGM FORWARD' event in Pyeongtaek, the company unveiled its ambitious plan to reinvent itself as a future mobility powerhouse. With over 200 attendees, including executives, labor leaders, analysts, and the press, this gathering marked a pivotal moment. KGM’s leadership, including Chairman Kwak Jae-sun and CEO Hwang Ki-young, laid out a roadmap centered on electrification, export expansion, and a broader brand experience. The company’s 2025 targets? Achieving 5 trillion KRW in revenue, 172.9 billion KRW in operating profit, and selling 127,000 vehicles—a bold vision that’s already sparking buzz in Korea’s automotive circles.

Electrification and Hybrid Innovation: The Heart of KGM’s Strategy

KGM isn’t just talking about the future—they’re building it. Their electrification drive is front and center, with a plan to launch seven new vehicles by 2030, starting with the SE10 SUV and the internally developed KR10. What sets KGM apart is its focus on hybrid technology. The company is introducing a dual-motor hybrid system (e-DHT) that supports nine driving modes, promising a smooth, quiet ride and up to 94% EV-mode driving in urban settings. This ‘electric vehicle without charging’ concept directly addresses Korean consumers’ concerns about charging infrastructure and EV fire risks. KGM’s hybrid models are being developed from EV platforms, not just as add-ons to combustion engines, making them a real alternative for those hesitant about full electrification.

Global Partnerships: Teaming Up with BYD and Chery

To accelerate its electrification journey, KGM is partnering with global heavyweights like China’s BYD and Chery Automobile. The collaboration with Chery brings shared technology platforms and joint development of plug-in hybrids and extended-range EVs (EREVs), aiming for high efficiency at competitive prices. The SE10, co-developed with Chery, will feature advanced software-defined vehicle (SDV) architecture and autonomous driving capabilities. Meanwhile, the BYD partnership is already bearing fruit, with battery packs and hybrid systems being integrated into new models. These alliances are not just about technology—they’re about KGM’s ambition to be a serious player in the global mobility game.

Expanding Exports: KGM’s Global Ambitions

KGM’s export strategy is as aggressive as its product plans. The company aims to sell over 40,000 vehicles in Europe alone, with a focus on hybrids and EVs making up 9% and 16% of the mix, respectively. A new German purchasing subsidiary is expected to boost annual sales in Europe, while a new office in Dubai signals a push into the Middle East and Africa. KGM is also targeting emerging markets in Latin America and Southeast Asia, with local assembly (KD) projects underway in Peru, Indonesia, Algeria, and Vietnam. These moves are designed to diversify revenue streams and establish KGM as a global brand, not just a domestic contender.

The Subscription Revolution: KGM MOBILING

In a move that’s catching the eye of younger, urban consumers, KGM is launching its first mobility subscription service, ‘KGM MOBILING’. Set to debut in Q3, this service offers access to hybrid vehicles with no upfront costs, bundling insurance, taxes, and maintenance into a single monthly fee. The plan is to expand this model to include pickup trucks and outdoor packages, making car ownership more flexible and accessible. This shift reflects changing attitudes among Korean drivers, who increasingly value convenience and experience over traditional ownership.

Community Buzz: How Are Koreans Reacting?

So, what’s the word on the street? Online communities like Naver, Tistory, and major forums are buzzing with mixed reactions. Many praise KGM’s bold vision and the practical appeal of its hybrid SUVs, especially the value-for-money proposition. Comments highlight the appeal of the new subscription model and the company’s willingness to innovate. However, some skepticism remains, particularly regarding the competitiveness of KGM’s pricing and the need for more robust after-sales support. There’s also discussion about the brand’s transition from SsangYong to KGM, with many noting a significant boost in positive sentiment and consumer interest since the rebranding. The consensus? KGM is finally shaking off its old image and stepping confidently into the future.

Cultural Insight: Why This Matters for Global Fans

If you’re new to the Korean automotive scene, here’s what you need to know: KGM’s transformation is about more than just new cars. It’s a reflection of Korea’s broader push into smart mobility, electrification, and global competitiveness. The company’s partnerships with Chinese giants and its focus on practical, affordable SUVs speak to the unique demands of Korean consumers—who want innovation, but also reliability and value. For international fans, KGM’s journey is a case study in how legacy brands can reinvent themselves through technology, collaboration, and bold ambition.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from KGM

With seven new vehicles on the horizon, a growing global footprint, and a suite of advanced hybrid technologies, KGM is positioning itself as a serious contender in the future mobility space. Industry watchers are keeping a close eye on the company’s next moves, especially as it rolls out new models and expands its subscription service. Will KGM’s gamble pay off? If the early buzz and community excitement are any indication, the answer could be a resounding yes. Stay tuned—KGM’s story is just getting started.