SOUTH Korean automakers Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Corp are ramping up efforts to expand their presence in Japan with new hydrogen and electric vehicles (EVs), as per a report by Pulse, the English service of Maeil Business News Korea.

At the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, which kicks off on Thursday, Hyundai Motor and Kia are expected to make their first joint appearance, targeting a market traditionally dominated by domestic automakers and internal combustion engine vehicles.

The report stated that before the event on Wednesday, Hyundai premiered The All-New NEXO, its latest hydrogen fuel cell electric SUV, while Kia debuted its PV5 purpose-built electric van.

Local sales are set to begin in the first half of next year. Kia also showcased its INSTER, known in Korea as the Casper Electric, and KONA Electric. The automaker said it plans to enter Japan’s electric van market next year with the PV5.

“The company expects rising demand as Japan aims to have 30 per cent of new car sales be electric by 2030,” the release said. — ANI