Coronavirus: Kia begins production of face shields

Many countries all over the world found themselves to be rather unprepared when the coronavirus hit, and they lacked the vast amounts of personal protective equipment (PPE) needed for medical professionals. Automakers have been filling the shortages by producing PPE at their factories which include respirators, masks, and ventilators and now Kia is also doing the same.

The Korean carmaker’s Accelerate the Good programme started off as an extension for vehicle warranties that were set to expire but now it includes the assembly of PPE at its factory in West Point, Georgia. It is the same factory that produces the Telluride, Sorento, and Optima.

Kia says the plant will be able to make up to 200,000 face shields per month to help fight Covid-19.

Deliveries are set to begin this week in the area surrounding the plant, followed by deliveries to the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and medical facilities in Southern California and New York.

Sean Yoon, president and CEO of Kia Motors North America said, "Giving back in meaningful ways is a key component of Kia Motors' 'Give It Everything' strategy in the US. Our Accelerate the Good program identifies areas where Kia can make the biggest impact and we are proud to lend our manufacturing capabilities and talents to produce face shields that will protect America's courageous healthcare workers. Kia is driven by an unstoppable spirit to take on and overcome challenges, and the world-class team members at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia have come together in support of those who are giving it everything on the frontlines of the pandemic."