Hyundai Motor Appoints First Foreign CEO to Lead Expansion into the U.S.
Key Ideas
  • Hyundai Motor appoints Jose Munoz as the first foreign president and chief executive to lead the expansion into the U.S., focusing on electric vehicles and investing in Georgia for EV and HEV production.
  • Munoz's appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance company performance through his merit-based management philosophy and commitment to global talent recruitment.
  • Hyundai aims to increase its presence in the U.S. EV market, planning to offer 21 EV models and sell two million EVs annually globally by 2030, while also doubling the number of hybrid electric vehicle models.
  • Despite global sales falling, Hyundai's North America market showed growth in the third quarter, with wholesale car sales rising 9.3% compared to the previous year, positioning the company positively in the EV and hybrid vehicle sector.
Hyundai Motor has appointed Jose Munoz as its new president and chief executive, making him the South Korean auto giant's first foreign leader. This move comes as Hyundai seeks to expand into the U.S. market and grow its electric-vehicle business globally. Munoz, who currently heads Hyundai Motor's U.S. operations, will take over from Jaehoon Chang, who will become the company's vice chairman. Hyundai is investing $12.6 billion in Georgia to produce more electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in the U.S., while also focusing on new battery and hydrogen technology. The company aims to offer 21 different EV models and sell two million EVs annually worldwide by 2030, along with doubling the number of hybrid electric vehicle models available. Munoz's appointment is viewed as a strategic decision to enhance company performance through his management philosophy and talent recruitment. Despite a 3.2% fall in global sales, Hyundai saw a 9.3% rise in wholesale car sales in North America in the third quarter, showcasing growth in the EV and hybrid vehicle segment. Hyundai's efforts in the U.S. market are supported by the Biden administration's clean energy policy, although challenges from the incoming Trump administration, opposed to U.S. tax credits for the EV industry, are anticipated. With a vision to lead the electric vehicle transition in the U.S., Hyundai remains focused on innovation and sustainable business practices.
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