Kia held a framework laying ceremony at the site of its India plant in Anatapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The ceremony was conducted in the presence of AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Han Woo Park, President and CEO Kia Motors.Â
The automaker has said that the construction of the plant was a month ahead of schdule and would be completed by Q1 of 2019 with production of cars expected to begin from mid 2019. When completed, the plant will cover 213.7 hectares and will be capable of producing 300, 000 cars annually.
 The first car that will roll out of the plant will be the production version of the SP SUV that was showcased at Delhi 2018. This is expected to be followed by a hatchback and compact sedan.Â
Commenting on the development, Han Woo Park, President and CEO, said "I believe Kia will bring amazing change and hope to both, the state of Andhra Pradesh and entire India. We are here to build more than just great cars. We aim to set a new standard of automotive lifestyle experiences by providing Indian consumers with world-class products and and services."