Driving forward: Hyundai hits new heights in Europe

Offenbach July 15th 2009
For the fifth consecutive month Hyundai has increased sales in Europe, achieving growth of 27.1% in June versus the same month last year. According to the latest ACEA report, Hyundai took 2.4% of total new car sales in Europe last month, up from 1.9% last year. Hyundai sales for the first six months of this year stand 15.7% ahead of 2008’s first-half result, while the overall market has declined by 11%.

With strong performances the first 6 month in leading western European markets such as Germany (up 131% year-on-year), Italy (42% growth) and UK (22% ahead), Hyundai continues to outperform the general downward trend in vehicle sales. The company’s market share for the year has reached 2.3% – in line with its forecast of up to 2.5% share by year-end.

Allan Rushforth, Vice-President at Hyundai Motor Europe, attributes the ongoing success to the company’s fresh model range and its appeal to a growing number of buyers who value brands which offer quality and affordability. He says, “Hyundai is undoubtedly benefiting from increased awareness among European consumers of our revitalized product range and our modern, confident brand image. Products such as the Europe-built i30 and the new B-segment challenger i20 have brought Hyundai to the attention of an ever-broader audience, helping us to capitalize on the current appetite for high-quality, high-value models.”

Launched in January, the i20 has already made a remarkable impact on Hyundai’s sales in the supermini segment, growing sales by 25% this year. Meanwhile, i30 sales are up by 15% and the i10 city car has leapt ahead by a remarkable 145% year-on-year.

Mr. Rushforth continues, “The various ‘scrappage’ schemes in place around Europe have reinvigorated several large new-car markets, where many buyers are considering Hyundai for the first time – as demonstrated by the phenomenal growth we have seen in the UK and Germany for example, where Hyundai has become the fastest-growing brand. We believe this year will be significant for Hyundai, representing a marked shift in the company’s position in the competitive European market. We intend to build on our success for the remainder of 2009 and into next year with a continued focus on further product enhancements and consistent value for consumers.”

This autumn at the Frankfurt Motor Show the company will unveil all-new and ‘updated’ vehicles as part of its ongoing product strategy, as well as displaying future-focused concept cars and technology showcases.