In a momentous occasion for the automotive industry, Hyundai Motor Company marked an extraordinary achievement on September 30, 2024, reaching the production of 100 million vehicles globally. This milestone, achieved in just 57 years, underscores Hyundai’s remarkable ascent as one of the fastest-growing automotive manufacturers worldwide, bolstered by a continuous commitment to innovation and bold challenges.
The celebration took place at Hyundai’s historic Ulsan Plant in Korea, the birthplace of the nation’s automotive industry and a hub of the company’s most forward-thinking developments. The ceremony not only commemorated this impressive feat but also symbolized Hyundai’s ambition to continue pushing the boundaries of mobility. During the event, the company delivered its 100 millionth and first vehicle, an IONIQ 5, to a customer, a gesture that speaks to the company’s deep gratitude to its loyal consumer base.
A Legacy of Innovation and Growth
“Reaching global cumulative production of 100 million vehicles is a meaningful milestone that was possible thanks to our customers around the world who have chosen and supported Hyundai Motor since the very beginning,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Taking on bold challenges and being in constant pursuit of innovation has enabled us to achieve rapid growth and will empower us to take ‘one step further’ toward another 100 million units as a mobility game changer.”
Since its founding in 1967, Hyundai Motor has displayed a relentless drive to innovate and expand. The Ulsan Plant, which started operations in 1968, stands as a beacon of the company’s early triumphs. It was here that Hyundai produced Korea’s first mass-produced independent model, the Pony, in 1975. Today, this plant has evolved into a cornerstone of Hyundai’s electrification efforts, and the company is investing further by building a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) facility on-site.
Dong Seock Lee, President and Head of Domestic Productions at Hyundai, noted the importance of the Ulsan Plant’s legacy. “Each and every employee at Hyundai Motor has contributed to the accumulation of 100 million units through their hard work and dedication. This auspicious occasion is just the first step toward the future era of electrification that Hyundai Motor will lead.”
Expanding Horizons: From EVs to Global Footprints
Hyundai’s journey to 100 million vehicles is defined not only by the sheer number of units produced but also by its strategic moves into new markets and advanced technologies. Hyundai’s innovation and growth have been fueled by its launch of premium brands like Genesis, the high-performance N line, and its game-changing shift to electric vehicles. The IONIQ 5, the first vehicle based on Hyundai’s dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), serves as a testament to the company’s vision of an electrified future.
As Hyundai’s global footprint expanded, production facilities in Turkey, India, the U.S., and the Czech Republic played pivotal roles in achieving this remarkable milestone. In 2013, the company reached the 50 million vehicle mark, and since then, it has continued to set new records.
In 2023, Hyundai further strengthened its future outlook by opening the Hyundai Motor Group Global Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS), an advanced smart urban mobility hub. This facility is pioneering the development of cutting-edge manufacturing platforms that integrate artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and smart factory technologies. These innovations are set to be incorporated into Hyundai’s future production sites, such as Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), optimizing production efficiency and leading the charge in next-generation manufacturing.
Looking Toward the Electrified Future
Hyundai’s celebration of 100 million units is not just about reflecting on past accomplishments—it is also about embracing the future of mobility. The company’s vision for electrification is clear, with significant investments in EV production and cutting-edge innovation.
The symbolic delivery of the IONIQ 5 as the 100 millionth vehicle marks a pivotal moment in Hyundai’s journey. It serves as a clear message: Hyundai is committed to taking “one step further” in its pursuit of sustainable mobility and to leading the charge into an electrified era.
As Hyundai embarks on the next chapter of its story, with a foundation built on resilience, boldness, and a customer-centric approach, the future looks brighter than ever for one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers. The path ahead is electrified, efficient, and driven by the same pioneering spirit that has defined Hyundai for the past 57 years.
