US Sales Surge for Hyundai Kia as Electric Demand Soars

Automakers Hyundai and Kia have concluded October with historic sales records in the United States, driven by an overwhelming market shift toward electrified transportation. Both South Korean manufacturers leveraged strong consumer demand for hybrid and electric vehicles to secure their best monthly performances.

Hyundai Motor America moved 73,452 vehicles last month, a 5 percent improvement over the 70,118 units registered during October of the prior year. This figure stands as a definitive record for the brand’s October market presence.

The hybrid segment has become a cornerstone of current sales strategies. Hybrid models accounted for 29 percent of Hyundai’s October volume, representing a 20 percent annual increase. Year-to-date hybrid sales have expanded by an impressive 50 percent since January.

Specific vehicle categories showcased robust growth. The Santa Fe SUV achieved a 52 percent sales increase, totaling 17,959 units. The Palisade SUV gained 14 percent to reach 10,840 sales. Compact SUVs like the Kona saw a 21 percent rise to 6,029 units, while the Elantra sedan climbed 17 percent to 12,011 units.

In the zero-emission category, the Ioniq 5 electric vehicle recorded a 21 percent sales increase, moving 1,981 units.

Randy Parker, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America, remarked that the brand delivered its strongest October yet, noting consistent and positive feedback from buyers across all primary models.

Looking at the broader year-to-date picture, Hyundai’s American sales from January through October 2024 reached 770,916 vehicles. This reflects a 3 percent annual growth compared to 748,467 units in the corresponding period last year.

Kia America mirrored this success, recording 80,008 vehicle sales in October. The result marks a 16 percent year-over-year expansion and solidifies the brand’s highest-ever October performance.

Kia attributed its momentum to the rapidly expanding popularity of electric and hybrid alternatives. The EV9 electric SUV experienced a dramatic 111 percent sales spike to 1,406 units. The Telluride SUV jumped 63 percent to 14,009 sales, and the EV6 electric car rose 58 percent to 803 units.