Hyundai reaches historic 100 million vehicles milestone, paving the road for an electrified future : Automotive Addicts
Automotive
In a remarkable achievement that underscores its rapid rise in the automotive world, Hyundai Motor Company has officially reached a major production milestone–100 million vehicles produced globally. Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, bold decisions, and relentless growth has propelled the company to the forefront of global automotive. Hyundai’s revolutionary electric vehicle (EV) IONIQ 5 was the 100 millionth vehicle that rolled off the production line. This special event wasn’t just about hitting an impressive number; it was about setting the stage for Hyundai’s future in electrification.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, Hyundai delivered the 100 millionth and first vehicle–a sleek IONIQ 5–to a lucky customer during the ceremony. This handover event was a powerful visual representation of the company’s forward-thinking mantra: “100 million and 1,” emphasizing Hyundai’s drive to push beyond past successes as it looks ahead to the future of mobility.
From the Pony to the IONIQ 5, A Journey of Innovation
Hyundai’s journey from its humble beginnings in 1967 to becoming a global powerhouse has been marked by bold moves and continuous innovation. Ulsan Plant is a place of great historical significance. It was here that Korea’s first mass produced car, the Hyundai Pony, was born in 1975. Nearly 50 years later, this same plant is now a pivotal hub for electric vehicle production, reflecting Hyundai’s seamless transition into the era of electrification.
Jaehoon Chang, Hyundai’s President and CEO, highlighted the significance of this momentous achievement. He said, “Reaching the milestone of 100 million vehicles was possible because our customers trusted and supported us.” He also acknowledged the vital role of innovation in driving the company’s rapid growth, noting that Hyundai’s ability to embrace change and take on bold challenges will continue to propel it forward.
Building a Global Footprint
Hyundai’s journey to 100 million vehicles was powered by its expansion beyond South Korea’s borders. Hyundai’s global footprint has grown steadily with production facilities in India, the United States and Turkey. In fact, the company surpassed 50 million units back in 2013, underscoring its impressive production capabilities.
While Hyundai’s success has been built on a wide range of vehicles, it’s the company’s recent ventures into premium and performance segments that have set it apart. Hyundai’s ability to meet the diverse needs of the market is evident in its Genesis luxury brand and high-performance N model. And now, with the launch of cutting-edge electric vehicles like the IONIQ 5–based on Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)–the automaker is shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
Electrification and the Road Ahead
As Hyundai looks to the future, electrification remains at the core of its vision. The Hyundai Motor Group Global Innovative Center Singapore (HMGICS), established last year, is helping to pave the way for smart manufacturing technologies powered by advanced automation, robotics and AI. These innovations are set to revolutionize production at Hyundai’s upcoming facilities, such as the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), enabling even greater efficiency in producing the next generation of vehicles.
Dong Seock Lee, President and Head of Domestic Production at Hyundai, emphasized the significance of this achievement in the context of Hyundai’s larger vision. Lee said that “this milestone is only the first step towards a future dominated with electrification.” With the growing demand for EVs and Hyundai’s ongoing investments in sustainable technology, the company is well-positioned to lead the charge into a greener, more connected future.
Looking to the Next 100 Million
While reaching 100 million vehicles is certainly an impressive feat, Hyundai’s ambitions extend far beyond this moment. The company’s rapid growth will be fueled by the unwavering commitment to innovation, and the ability to anticipate the needs of future consumers. Hyundai, with electrification at the forefront, is prepared to face the future one electric mile a time.
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