SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - A Kia Motors executive says the South Korean company plans to start up its first U.S. factory on schedule in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Kim Deuk-ju, the company's finance chief, told The Associated Press in Seoul that Kia can meets its initial target for the west Georgia plant.
Kia spoke after a report in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper quoted industry observers as suggesting that the factory could be delayed, citing reasons including weak sales and overcapacity:
"While U.S. sales "haven't been a disaster, they certainly haven't been what the company wanted," a Singapore-based analyst who asked for anonymity said."Bert Brantley, press secretary to Govenor Sonny Perdue said:
"'Work on the plant's foundation has started, suppliers are coming to town, construction permits are secure and the Quick Start training facility is underway..."Kim dismissed the article, saying those quoted "have their own estimate," adding that construction has begun and is "on schedule."
"The company has said it is aiming for completion in 2009, and every indication is that the first Georgia-made Kia will roll off the line on time, in 2009.'"
The Kia facility is expected to produce 300,000 vehicles per year at maximum capacity.
Previous GPB News reports on this story are here.
(Associated Press)
