Hyundai Motor reports company developments tied to its global automotive business, including U.S. sales performance, electrified vehicle demand, model launches, and customer programs. Recurring updates from Hyundai Motor America feature vehicles such as the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 5 N, IONIQ 9, Tucson Hybrid, Palisade, Santa Fe, and Elantra HEV.
Company announcements also cover product awards, safety and connected-service features, ownership programs such as Hyundai Rewards and Bluelink, education partnerships, community relief initiatives, and vehicle-development collaborations across passenger, commercial, hybrid, and electric vehicle categories.
Hyundai Motor America has appointed Culture Brands as its African American marketing agency of record as of May 7, 2021. This multi-year agreement follows a competitive RFP process and aims to enhance marketing strategies targeting African American audiences. Culture Brands will collaborate on campaigns for the 2022 Tucson and support future launches, including the IONIQ sub-brand. The partnership focuses on creating culturally relevant content and strategies to engage this demographic effectively.
Hyundai Motor and UNDP Accelerator Labs celebrate six months of the 'for Tomorrow' project with a video showcasing sustainable solutions from grassroots innovators across 30 countries. Narrated by Jessica Alba, the video highlights the initiative's progress and encourages further submissions to promote sustainable cities and communities. The project will continue to accept solutions until late 2021, with support from sustainability experts starting in May, culminating in an announcement of final results in September.
Robert Wickens returned to racing in a Hyundai Veloster N TCR car after a severe accident in 2018, marking a significant milestone 989 days post-accident. Wickens, who underwent extensive rehabilitation for multiple serious injuries, expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by Hyundai and Bryan Herta Autosport. The vehicle, equipped with custom hand controls, previously won races under paralyzed driver Michael Johnson. Wickens aims to use his experience to enhance accessibility in racing.
Hyundai is enhancing safety against pediatric heatstroke by implementing Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) systems across thirteen vehicle models, including the Palisade and Tucson. The ROA technology includes alerts via flashing lights, horn, and text notifications through the Blue Link system. This initiative aligns with the NHTSA's annual heatstroke prevention program, which highlights the rapid temperature increase inside vehicles. The company emphasizes the significance of safety, urging drivers to always check their vehicles before leaving.
Hyundai Motor America reported record-breaking total sales of 77,523 units in April 2021, a significant 128% increase from April 2020. Retail sales also hit an all-time high at 74,978 units, marking a 146% rise. Notable increases were seen in SUVs (+137%), cars (+163%), and eco-friendly vehicles (+640%). Despite a 27% decrease in fleet sales, Hyundai's strong product lineup, particularly the new Tucson, is expected to drive further consumer interest.
Hyundai has launched a comprehensive marketing campaign for the all-new 2022 Tucson titled "Question Everything." The campaign features a celebrity-filled TV commercial and innovative social media initiatives, emphasizing the brand's focus on questioning assumptions during the vehicle's development. Celebrities like Jason Bateman, Mindy Kaling, and Kawhi Leonard star in the campaign, which will air during major events like the NBA Playoffs. The campaign is intended to showcase the Tucson as Hyundai's most advanced model, supported by extensive media coverage and social media engagement.
Hyundai has received two Cost to Own awards from Kelley Blue Book for its Venue SUV and Elantra sedan for 2021, marking their second consecutive year receiving this recognition. These awards highlight vehicles with the lowest projected ownership costs over five years, considering purchase price and additional expenses like fuel and maintenance. Hyundai's focus on customer data has reportedly enhanced its offerings and value proposition.
Hyundai Motor America has partnered with National Geographic to launch the "Outside Academy," an augmented reality (AR) educational platform that allows families to explore national parks like Zion, Yosemite, and Great Smoky Mountains. The initiative features a digital hub with immersive content, accessible on NatGeo.com and Instagram, alongside in-person experiences. Hyundai aims to engage audiences through innovative AR lessons, promoting their electrified vehicles, including the Santa Fe HEV, Tucson PHEV, and Ioniq 5. The campaign seeks to inspire exploration and education in a post-pandemic world.
Hyundai Motor Company unveiled the all-new KONA N during Hyundai N Day, showcasing its high-performance philosophy. The KONA N, the first N model in SUV form, combines versatility with spirited acceleration and racetrack readiness. Hyundai emphasized its commitment to sustainable e-performance and hinted at future N models. Thomas Schemera stated that the company aims to lead in high-performance vehicles with both traditional and advanced propulsion technologies, promising an expanding balanced N portfolio for diverse driving experiences.
On April 27, 2021, Hyundai Motor Company launched the all-new KONA N during Hyundai N Day, marking its first SUV in the high-performance N lineup. This model combines versatility with spirited acceleration and agility, showcasing Hyundai's commitment to high-performance driving and sustainability. The presentation also hinted at future N models and emphasized the brand's ambition to lead in high-performance vehicles powered by both traditional engines and advanced electric technologies. Hyundai aims to deliver an engaging driving experience with the KONA N.