Originally established in South Korea in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company has become one of the world's leading automakers. Hyundai has an impressive history spanning decades and is well-known for its cutting-edge technology, dependable automobiles, and inventive designs. This comprehensive overview charts Hyundai's annual worldwide and Indian journey.
Global Timeline of Hyundai
- 1967-1970s: The Foundation
- 1967: Hyundai Motor Company was established.
- 1975: Hyundai launched its first car, the Pony, South Korea's first mass-produced vehicle, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign.
1980s: Entering the Global Market
Hyundai entered the U.S. market in 1986 with the Excel, which was praised for its affordability and reliability.
The decade marked Hyundai's transition from a budget-focused manufacturer to a brand investing in quality and design.
1990s: Expansion and Modernization
- Hyundai introduced the Elantra in 1990, which became a global success.
- The company invested heavily in research and development, establishing the Hyundai Research and Development Center in Namyang, South Korea.
- Hyundai introduced the Accent and Sonata, strengthening its global presence.
2000s: Quality Revolution
- Hyundai implemented a global quality improvement initiative.
- The Hyundai Santa Fe (2000) marked the company's entry into the SUV segment.
- Hyundai established itself as a leader in warranty programs with its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty in the U.S.
- The decade also saw Hyundai’s first concept of fuel-efficient and hybrid technologies.
2010s: Innovation and Sustainability
- Hyundai unveiled its luxury brand, Genesis, in 2015.
- The company launched the Hyundai Ioniq in 2016, offering hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric options.
- Hyundai entered the fuel cell vehicle market with the Nexo, a hydrogen-powered SUV.
2020s: Pioneering Electric Mobility
Hyundai launched the Ioniq 5 (2021), a groundbreaking EV based on its Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
Hyundai committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 and expanded its lineup of electric and hydrogen vehicles.
Hyundai History in India
- 1996-1999: Entry into India
- 1996: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) was established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company.
- 1998: Hyundai entered the Indian market with the Santro, a compact car that redefined the Indian hatchback segment. Its "Tall Boy Design" and affordability made it an instant hit.
Hyundai set up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, with an initial production capacity of 120,000 units per year.
2000-2010: Establishing Dominance
- 2000: Hyundai launched the Accent, targeting the sedan market.
- 2004: The launch of the Hyundai Getz marked the company's foray into the premium hatchback segment.
- 2008: Hyundai introduced the i10, a model that became a benchmark in the small car market.
- 2009: The launch of the i20, a premium hatchback, elevated Hyundai’s position in the Indian market.
2011-2020: Expanding Portfolio
- 2011: Hyundai launched the Eon, an entry-level hatchback designed for Indian buyers.
- 2013: The introduction of the Grand i10 and Xcent sedan diversified Hyundai’s offerings.
- 2015: Hyundai entered the SUV market with the launch of the Creta, which became a segment leader.
- 2017: Hyundai introduced its first electric car, the Kona Electric, in India, showcasing its commitment to green mobility.
- 2019: The new generation Santro was launched, reviving the brand's iconic model.
2021-Present: Transition to the Future
- 2021: Hyundai launched the Ioniq 5 in India, aligning with its global EV strategy.
- 2022: The company unveiled the new Tucson and updated versions of the Creta and Venue to strengthen its SUV portfolio.
- 2023: Hyundai expanded its EV lineup in India with the introduction of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and announced investments in electric vehicle manufacturing in Tamil Nadu.
- 2024: Hyundai remains one of India’s top automobile brands, with a diversified portfolio catering to various segments, from entry-level cars to luxury EVs.
Hyundai's Impact in India
The Sriperumbudur plant is a hub for domestic sales and exports, producing cars for over 90 countries. India is Hyundai's second-largest production hub globally.
Sales and Market Presence
Hyundai consistently ranks among the top two automakers in India. The Creta and Venue dominate the compact SUV segment, while the i10 and i20 remain popular in the hatchback category.
Innovations for India
Hyundai has localized production and design, ensuring affordability and relevance to Indian consumers.
Introduction of advanced connected technologies through the Hyundai Bluelink system.
Future Plans
Hyundai plans to launch multiple EV models in India by 2030.
Aiming to achieve significant localization in EV production, including battery manufacturing.
Hyundai’s journey, from launching the Santro in 1998 to becoming a key player in India’s automotive industry, reflects its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With a focus on sustainable and connected mobility, Hyundai continues to drive the future of Indian automotive with cutting-edge products and technologies.
