Korean Auto Exports to the U.S. Sells Over 30, 000

Despite the decline in Daewoo`s auto sales, favorable performances by Hyundai and Kia have raised Korean auto exports to the U.S. have sold over 300, 000 cars. American Hyundai and Kia branch corporations reported on the 1st that they sold 351, 097 Korean automobiles sold in the U.S., an increase of 28.4 percent (70, 7800) from last year.

Sale numbers rank Hyundai first with 195, 832 (33 percent increase), Kia second with 121, 038 (39.45 percent increase), and Daewoo last with 34, 427 (13.1 percent decrease).

Overcoming declines in sales of sports vehicles such as the Elantra and Sephia, highly rated newer vehicles like the Santa Fe XG300, Rio Optima prepares the way for higher sales.

Daewoo increased sales with models such as the Leganza (13, 741), Nubira (1, 580), Lanos (1, 106), but experienced declines in the aftermath of sale negotiations with General Motors. Daewoo expects to pursue a vigorous marketing campaign this year after the negotiations end and raise its sale rates.

(Los Angeles Associated Press)