Hyundai HCD-14 Genesis Concept Unveiled

Hyundai Motor that teased the image of HCD-14 Genesis Concept on 8th January, has now staged a world premier of the vehicle at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), accelerating its push into the global luxury segment. The luxury concept also hints at the company’s future premium convenience features by showcasing cutting-edge technologies such as innovative eye-tracking and gesture-based controls. Sales of Hyundai’s luxury vehicles have been posting significant gains worldwide, especially in the U.S., China and the Middle East.

“Hyundai’s Genesis and Equus models are now recognised as serious contenders in the global luxury market. Our concept vehicle today will further raise Hyundai’s premium brand image,” said Tak Uk Im, Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Head of Hyundai Motor’s International Operations Division in Seoul. “Our focus going forward is to strive for brand innovation based on quality.”

In 2012, Hyundai’s top end models such as the Genesis and Equus, saw a 24 percent sales increase outside Korea compared to the previous year. In particular, in the Middle East region, sales of the two models reached 4,132 units, an increase of more than 45 percent from a year earlier. For the first time, Equus was named 2012 Car of the Year by the leading Middle East car magazine, Sport Auto.

In the U.S., Hyundai’s largest luxury market outside of Korea, Hyundai has been steadily expanding its market share as well. Following the success of the Genesis, which was chosen as the 2009 North American Car of the Year, Equus sales are showing strong momentum since its launch at the end of 2010. In the 16th annual Strategic Vision Total Value Awards, the Equus beat competitors like BMW and Mercedes to take first place in the luxury car segment.

“We’ve departed from industry convention in many of our premium product, marketing, sales and service approaches, and it’s worked out pretty well, with Genesis and Equus now delivering a nine percent retail market share in their premium segments, higher than the five percent retail share Hyundai brand achieves in the overall industry,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America.

“This success paves the way for a new generation of rear-wheel drive premium products. HCD-14 Genesis gives a hint of the design direction we’ll be taking, and an indication of the focus we’re placing on driving dynamics and technology.”