Hyundai and Kia achieved record US sales in November, fueled by surging demand for electrified vehicles and strong performance in the crossover segment.
Hyundai’s sales rose 8% year-over-year to 76,008 units, while Kia’s deliveries soared 20% to 70,107, marking a standout month for both automakers.
The momentum is expected to continue as Hyundai launches its three-row flagship SUV, Ioniq 9, a model aimed at the heart of the North American market.
Electrified models were a key growth driver for Hyundai, not only with hybrid sales, which skyrocketed by 114% but also with EV deliveries, which increased by a whopping 70%. Combined sales of all electrified models climbed 92% in November.
Hyundai Motor America CEO Randy Parker described the month as “exceptional,” crediting the brand’s diverse lineup for meeting a wide range of customer preferences.
Catering to varying needs
“Hyundai’s ability to cater to varying needs, from traditional fuel to electrified options, continues to resonate with customers,” Parker said. He also noted a slight uptick in showroom traffic following the presidential election, adding that consumer interest in environmentally conscious vehicles has shown no signs of slowing.
Kia similarly benefited from strong demand for electrified models, with sales of hybrids and EVs jumping 45% in November. This marks the second consecutive month Kia’s retail sales have posted a 20% year-over-year gain.
Unlike its sister brand, Hyundai, Kia can count on the strong performance of its locally built EV9. This large SUV has now received its twin at Hyundai and has been rebadged as Ioniq 9.
The model was unveiled at the iconic Goldstein House in Beverly House before its debut on the floor of the LA Motor Show. In January, Hyundai will also showcase the all-electric luxury SUV at the Brussels Motor Show.
South Korea wins, Stellantis loses
Beyond electrified vehicles, the South Korean brands saw robust demand in the highly competitive crossover market. Hyundai highlighted the Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade as top performers, contributing significantly to the automaker’s record-setting month.
Meanwhile, Kia reported November sales records for several key models, including the Sportage, Telluride, Carnival, EV6, and K4/Forte. Each posted gains of at least 12%, reflecting continued consumer appetite for versatile and spacious vehicles.
The surge is even better news for both brands, as most automotive brands are wavering profit warnings and seeing revenue and subsequent profits decline at unprecedented levels.
Though this is mainly attributed to collapsing performances in the Chinese market, North American sales are also sputtering. Stellantis brands Dodge, Ram, Jeep, and Chrysler were down 17 percent in the US during the third quarter of this year.
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