Hyundai’s first large electric SUV has been unveiled in the United States.
At this event, Hyundai’s first-ever foreign CEO made his debut, garnering attention comparable to the new vehicle itself. Reporter So Hwan-wook investigates the reason behind appointing a foreign CEO.
In a luxurious residence in Los Angeles, a vehicle hidden under a black cloth was unveiled.
This is the Ioniq 9, Hyundai’s first large electric SUV developed as a strategic model for the US market.
It can accommodate up to seven people and can drive up to 532 km on a single charge.
This event also marked the debut stage for José Muñoz, the first foreigner to be appointed as CEO in Hyundai’s 57-year history.
[José Muñoz/Hyundai Global Chief Operating Officer: I’m proud to say that the Ioniq 9 will significantly contribute to achieving our US electric vehicle sales goals.]
Muñoz, with a unique background as a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from Spain, was known as Carlos Ghosn’s “right hand” while leading Nissan’s operations in North America and China. Since 2019, he has been leading Hyundai’s US division, spearheading dealer network expansion and luxury strategies.
The appointment of Muñoz as CEO, along with hiring consultant Sung Kim as president for external relations and policy analysis, is interpreted as a strategy to respond to changes in policies under President Trump’s second-term administration.
This is because Trump is signaling upheavals in the US automotive market by mentioning the abolition of electric vehicle mandates, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the elimination of subsidy benefits under the IRA.
Muñoz revealed his intent towards localization and electrification by stating that new vehicles would be produced in the newly built plant in Georgia, USA.
[José Muñoz/Hyundai Global Chief Operating Officer: Approximately $12.6 billion has been invested for the Georgia plant, which includes a battery plant. This will create about 40,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Georgia area.]
Meanwhile, other global companies, such as Volkswagen installing a new North America CEO from a US electric vehicle company, are speeding up their Trump-friendly strategies.
(Video editing: An Yeojin)