Professional Builder puts the question to pick up manufacturer, KGM on the company rebrand and the plans for the future
PB: Why has SsangYong rebranded to KGM?
KGM: SsangYong Motor Company confirmed the change of its corporate name to KGM in March 2023. The name SsangYong appeared in 1988, and after numerous investors, Mahindra and Mahindra took a controlling stake in 2010. In November 2022, its majority shareholding was acquired by the KG Group. The KG Group is large Korean company, established in 2003, and operates through its affiliates in various industries including chemicals, steel, hospitality, and media. Its acquisition of SsangYong Motor Company was an opportunity for KG’s M&A expansion, and an entrance into the automotive industry, with particular focus on electrification. For more information visit: https://kgm-motors.media/releases/222
PB: Can you provide some details on the 70-year history, with some significant milestones along the way?
KGM: KGM Global changed its name for the first time in 35-years as it transforms into a brand for the future. It’s an exciting period for us for us all in terms of unveiling a refreshed, modern brand identity alongside the development and launch of impressive products which utilise new technologies. We have embraced the change here in the UK and we will continue to grow as a proud and respected SUV and pick-up truck brand. KGM, was and is, Korea’s oldest automotive manufacturer and has a rich automotive legacy. The company was originally founded as Ha Dong-Hwan Automobile Manufacturing in January 1954. In 1988, the brand became SsangYong Motor Company, which was acquired by KG Group with a majority shareholding, in 2023. For more information on the company’s history visit: https://kgm-motors.media/releases/240 and https://www.kgm-motors.co.uk/our-story/
PB: We understand you’ve been significantly expanding the dealer network?
KGM: We have a very clear focus in taking our dealer network forward, targeting established businesses with current or very recent franchised history. Last year, we appointed 19-new dealers – some of which were a second or third site with existing partners, which we believe is testament as to how we operate and do business. To support our planned growth, we require, strong, evenly spread representation, and we will expand to an 80-strong dealer network by the end of 2024. We are actively looking for new partners and, despite strong growth in 2023, we still have some open areas that we would like to fill – we’re always keen to talk to new prospects! Our dealer standards and CI are not onerous but provide a common-sense framework and are easy for partners to achieve.
Our main open points currently are in Glasgow, Stockport, Ipswich, Oxford, Cambridge, Harlow, Canterbury, Wakefield, Liverpool, and Plymouth.
PB: How do you view the pick-up market in the UK?
KGM: Historically, the pick-up market was crowded. However, there has been a competitor reduction in recent years largely due to emission legislation changes. Competitor prices are generally going up but ours are not – we are very much aware of the growing costs for small businesses and therefore we have worked hard on maintaining a very capable and value-for-money pick-up. Demand for pick-ups continues to be strong across all sectors and we have some very competitive finance options available.
In celebration of our 70th anniversary this year, we will soon launch the new Saracen Platinum special edition. Designed with pick-up enthusiasts in mind, this limited-edition retains the core attributes of the multi-purpose, award-winning Musso Saracen, known for its 1-tonne+ payload and 3.5-tonne towing capability – that can carry and tow to max capacity, all at the same time – while incorporating unique anniversary features. Available in Marble Gray or Grand White colourways, the Platinum’s accessories include black tribal side steps, wheel arches, skid plate, electric roll-top, sports bars all for £33,995 ex. VAT. This special edition also boasts exclusive trinketry, including additional Saracen Platinum decals, a numbered interior badge, and a commemorative keyring indicating which of the 70 units a customer has purchased.
PB: What can we expect in terms of new models, technologies and innovations?
KGM: We have invested in a new factory in Korea, which has been developed specifically to accommodate the production of pure-electric vehicles. KGM launched its first pure-electric vehicle, the Korando e-Motion in 2021, and has just launched its second – the outstanding Torres EVX SUV. There are several new dual-platform BEV/ICE and hybrid additions or replacements to the range planned within the next 18-months – we will continue with our ICE offering as long as we are able to do so.
PB: Are there any plans for an EV model?
KGM: Showcased at Seoul Motorshow 2023, and based on the Torres EVX platform, the pure-EV 4×4 pick-up O100 is due to the UK in early 2025. As a mid-size pickup for urban drivers. Its design is inspired by the Torres EVX, as you can see from the light signature at the front. The electric concept is envisioned as having V2L connectors to help future owners power their tools on the work site. For more on the O100 visit https://www.kgm-motors.co.uk/concept-cars/kgm-o100/.
For further information on KGM in the UK visit Award-Winning SUVs & Pickups | Previously SsangYong | KGM Motors UK (kgm-motors.co.uk).
