A 2011 Optima Hybrid is the one millionth Kia imported to the United States through the Port of Tacoma.

KMA’s market share has grown each year since the company entered the U.S. in 1994. During this time Kia has transformed from a second-rated Korean car maker into one of the best selling brands in America. We all know the story of their success.

The Optima Hybrid is Kia’s first-ever hybrid vehicle in the U.S. market and was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2010. The 2011 Optima Hybrid uses a full parallel hybrid system and can be driven in zero emission, full-electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles an hour, or in a blended gas-electric mode at any speed.

“We congratulate Kia Motors on reaching this milestone at our Port,” said Connie Bacon, commission president, Port of Tacoma.  “Over the years, the Kia business in Tacoma has meant thousands of longshore hours for our International Longshore Workers Union Local 23 workers who drive the vehicles off the ships, and hundreds of jobs at AWC and throughout our community. We look forward to continuing this long-standing relationship with Kia Motors.”

Since February 1995, Auto Warehousing Company (AWC) and its 200 employees have processed every Kia imported through the Port of Tacoma.

“This tremendous milestone demonstrates the strength of a long-standing partnership between Kia Motors America and the Port of Tacoma,” said Tom Loveless, vice president of sales, Kia Motors America (KMA).  “Kia’s commitment to the U.S. market is reflected in our growth and long list of critically acclaimed products, including the all-new Optima Hybrid that is now arriving in dealer showrooms.”