Korean automotive major Hyundai Motor Group’s Luc Donckerwolke, executive VP for Design and chief creative officer (CCO) has been named the 2022 World Car Person of the Year by the World Car Awards jury panel.

The accolade recognises automotive industry professionals who have made a significant impact with their contributions in the year leading up to the award. The World Car Awards jury members representing 102 journalists from 33 countries cited Donckerwolke’s role overseeing innovative new models, including Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60, as the principal reason for honouring him this year. They also heralded the resto-mod Pony and Grandeur models that paid homage to Korea’s often overlooked automotive heritage.

Donckerwolke’s 30-year career as an automotive designer has enabled him to gain worldwide experience working for many prestigious brands, including Bentley, Lamborghini, Skoda, Seat and Audi. He joined the Group in 2016 and succeeded Peter Schreyer as CCO in 2017.

“I am deeply honoured to receive the Person of the Year award and would like to thank all of the jury members and the valued team at Hyundai Motor Group, without whom this would not have been possible. I have worked for many companies and brands over my career and I’m delighted at the recognition the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands have received. They are a true reflection of the effort of all of the Group employees, retailers and partners who have worked steadfastly to develop a strong line-up of compelling and relevant vehicles on sale in over 200 countries worldwide,” said Donckerwolke.

The World Car jury also recognised Hyundai, Kia and Genesis models in various award categories. The Ioniq 5 and EV6 made the top five in 2022 World Car Design; GV70 made the top five in 2022 World Luxury Car; the Ioniq 5 was also among the top five in 2022 World EV of the Year. The Korean company says the Ioniq 5, EV6, Genesis G70 and Hyundai Tucson all made the top 10 in 2022 World Car of the Year, giving it more recognition than any other automaker on the list.

“Since joining the Group as CCO in 2016, we have not only continued the upward trajectory of both the Hyundai and Kia brands but also introduced a new luxury brand, Genesis. Since its introduction, the Genesis brand has grown to receive many accolades, and I am privileged to be part of the creation, launch and development of the brand alongside many of my esteemed colleagues,” added Donckerwolke.

The World Car Person of the Year award is part of the annual World Car Awards, which officially launched in January 2004. The award aims to recognise, reward and inspire excellence, leadership and innovation in the automotive industry. Past winners have included Akio Toyoda (2021), Carlos Tavares (2020), Sergio Marchionne (2019) and Hakan Samuelsson (2018).