SsangYong is rebranding and will now be known in the UK as KGM.
The Korean firm was acquired by the KG Group in November 2022, following its collapse into administration, and has been rolling out a new global identity since March 2023 under the KG Mobility brand.
However, in the UK, the SUVs and pickups will be known by the three-letter abbreviation of KGM.
The transformation marks a fresh start for the manufacturer as it focuses on the next generation of mobility, including incorporating electrification, autonomous driving, and artificial intelligence into its products.
The new name will be set to the right of the brand’s winged logo, which pays homage to the Korean company’s heritage that stretches back to 1954 when it was established as Ha Dong-Hwan Motor Company. While retaining the winged logo, the brand’s colours will switch from white and blue to a white and black design.
As well as a new name, the vehicles will be sold with a new global brand slogan: “Go Different. KGM.”
“KGM Global has changed its name for the first time in 35 years as it transforms into a brand for the future,” explains Kevin Griffin, managing director of KGM Motors UK. “This is an exciting period for us for us all in terms of unveiling a refreshed, modern brand identity alongside the development and launch of impressive products which utilise new technologies. We have embraced the change here in the UK, and we will continue to grow as a proud and respected SUV and pickup truck brand.”
KGM — née SsangYong — is on an accelerated path to electrify its model range, with the Torres EVX electric SUV due before a Torres-based electric pickup follows in the second half of 2024.
The Korean firm has partnered with BYD to rapidly develop electric vehicles, which it says is a pivotal element in the company’s next-generation growth strategy as it aims to secure its continued and sustainable growth.
The two firms have already worked together, with researchers from both companies beginning the joint development of the next-generation hybrid system for a 2025 model based on the Torres. The duo also plan to develop plug-in hybrids, with a recent restructuring of its research institute bolstering electric vehicle development capabilities.
