HYUNDAI IS WORLD’S SIXTH LARGEST AUTOMAKER IN 2005
The Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) group is ranked the sixth largest automotive manufacturer in the world, according to the Detroit-based weekly Automotive News.
In Automotive News’ most recent survey of global automotive sales and production, Hyundai group vehicles registered an 11.6 percent jump in global sales in 2005 to 3,715,096 units (about seven HMC group vehicles registered for road use every minute of the day!). It was the largest percentage gain of any carmaker in the million-plus sales category. With it, Hyundai group vehicles climbed one spot in the global rankings.
Hyundai has enjoyed double digit sales gains in the Chinese, Indian and Russian markets while in the more competitive North American and European markets, a more modest pace of growth has been registered.
The survey results were published in the June 5, 2006 edition of Automotive News and include sales of cars, light trucks, commercial vehicles and buses.
The steady climb up the charts is attributable to the leadership and vision of HMC Chairman Mr. Chung Mong-Koo. Since taking over the helm of HMC in 1999, he has made quality his mantra resulting in a dramatic turnaround in the reputation of the brands thereby fueling increased sales. He has also spearheaded the company’s drive to invest in overseas manufacturing. During his tenure, global sales of HMC vehicles had overtaken Fiat, Honda, PSA/Peugeot-Citroen, Nissan and Renault to move into the top six spot.
Established in 1967, HMC has grown into the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group which includes over two dozen auto-related subsidiaries and affiliates. Employing over 68,000 people worldwide, Hyundai Motor posted US$26.1 (RM96.5) billion in sales in 2004 (on a non-consolidated basis). Hyundai vehicles are sold in 193 countries through some 5,000 dealerships and showrooms. HMC is a sponsor of the 2006 FIFA Germany World Cup. Hyundai vehicle franchise holder in Malaysia is Hyumal Motor Sdn. Bhd., a member of the Sime Darby Group of companies and the prime mover of Hyundai vehicles in Malaysia is Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn. Bhd.
