close
top of page

Hyundai

The Hyundai Motor Company, sometimes known as Hyundai Motors or just Hyundai, is a global South Korean automaker that was established in 1967 and has its headquarters in Seoul.

Hyundai

In 1947, the Hyundai Engineering and Construction Company was created by Chung Ju-Yung (1915–2001). Later, in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company was founded, and in 1968, the Cortina, the company's debut model, was unveiled in collaboration with Ford Motor Company. In February 1974, Hyundai engaged George Turnbull, the former managing director of Austin Morris at British Leyland, to help them create their own automobile. He then engaged five additional renowned British automobile engineers. They were Peter Slater, principal development engineer, John Crosthwaite, a former BRM chassis engineer, engineers John Simpson and Edward Chapman, and body designer Kenneth Barnett. Giorgio Giugiaro of ItalDesign designed the Pony, the first South Korean automobile, which Mitsubishi Motors of Japan provided the powertrain for, and it was introduced in 1975.

Hyundai started selling the Pony to Canada in 1984 but not to the US since it wouldn't meet their pollution regulations. Sales in Canada much beyond forecasts, and at one time, it was the most popular vehicle sold there. Hyundai manufactured their millionth vehicle in 1985. For the South Korean executive market, Hyundai provided a locally built Ford Granada prior to the release of the bigger Hyundai Grandeur in 1986. These knocked-down kits may be imported as long as Hyundai exported five vehicles for every one that Granada imported (the same demands were placed on Kia).


Hyundai started selling automobiles in the US in 1986, and the Excel was recognized by Fortune magazine as "Best Product #10," primarily due to its affordability. In 1988, the business started producing cars using its own technology, starting with the midsize Sonata. Hyundai's total annual manufacturing of cars surpassed the four million marks in the spring of 1990. The four-cylinder Alpha, the company's first unique gasoline engine, and its own gearbox were successfully developed in 1991, opening the road for industrial freedom.


Hyundai Motor Company Official Website | Hyundai Worldwide
https://www.hyundai.com

bottom of page