Chung Euisun: "Innovation Is Embedded in Hyundai's DNA... Contributing to Improving Human Life Through Technology"

Chung Euisun, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, highlighted the group's "innovation DNA" as its greatest competitive strength, emphasizing the need to enhance the quality of human life through technology and innovation.

In an interview with Automotive News, a U.S. automotive magazine, on August 20 (local time), Chairman Chung stated, "Innovation is embedded in the DNA of Hyundai Motor Group, and the most important measure of success will always be the customer."

He continued, "The next chapter of mobility is being shaped by artificial intelligence (AI), software-defined vehicles (SDV), and electrification. Companies striving to lead in these areas will be the ones to succeed," adding, "However, the most important thing is that new technologies must actually contribute to improving people's lives."

Chung Euisun, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group. Provided by Hyundai Motor Group

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Regarding the recent rise of protectionism in the industry, he said, "One of our greatest strengths is agility," and added, "We are well positioned to adapt to these changes. Investments in the U.S. and localization are strategies to maintain resilience."

When asked about the technological breakthrough that will most dramatically transform the automotive industry over the next 25 years, he explained, "We are entering an era where mobility is shifting from 'horsepower,' which symbolizes internal combustion engines, to 'processing power,' the standard for SDVs. While electrification has redefined the powertrain, software is redefining the entire value chain-from product development and vehicle architecture to user interaction and business models."

He stated, "It's no longer just about how a car drives, as in the past. Now, what matters is how the vehicle thinks, learns, and evolves," explaining the background behind investments in SDV development. He also emphasized that software is redefining the entire value chain, from product development and vehicle architecture to user interaction and business models.

Regarding industry integration and partnerships, such as collaborations with competitors like GM and Toyota, he remarked, "Collaboration is now a necessity, not a choice." He pointed out recent changes in the nature of industry integration, noting an increase in "goal-oriented" partnerships rather than traditional mergers and acquisitions.

Chairman Chung added, "This includes joint technology development, creating supply chain synergies, or leveraging expertise in other areas such as SDVs, next-generation manufacturing technologies, and clean energy. Ultimately, this allows us to deliver more innovative products to our customers."

When asked about the future of Korea's automotive industry in 2050, he predicted an era of collaboration between humans and robots. Chairman Chung said, "We see the future of manufacturing as a collaboration between people and machines," and mentioned plans to introduce advanced robotics technology to improve quality and create a human-centered work environment.

He also presented plans to achieve carbon neutrality for sustainable management. Chairman Chung stated, "Carbon neutrality is not just a goal but a responsibility, and we will achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045." Regarding hydrogen, he emphasized, "We see it as one of the most promising solutions to the world's energy challenges."

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