The global mobility landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, shaped by electrification, hydrogen propulsion, digital integration, and artificial intelligence, and India is poised to play a strategic role in building cleaner, safer, and more inclusive transport ecosystems, according to Unsoo Kim, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor India.
“The global mobility landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Across continents, the pursuit of sustainable, clean, and connected transportation ecosystems is reshaping how humanity moves,” Kim said at the 65th SIAM Annual Convention in New Delhi on Thursday.
“The opportunities are immense - cleaner commutes, safer roads, inclusive transport systems, and above all, a healthier and better quality of life for every citizen.”
He noted that India is not only one of the largest automotive markets globally but also a hub of innovation, manufacturing excellence, and talent. “Today, Bharat stands at a defining moment in its mobility journey – transitioning from value-conscious to value-driven, and embracing a customer mindset rooted in technology, sustainability, and safety,” he said.
Kim welcomed the landmark Goods and Services Tax reforms, calling them “a pivotal step in our collective aspiration to build a Viksit Bharat.” He added, “By reducing the tax burden on essential goods, the government has laid the foundation for inclusive growth and a consumption-led economy… The GST overhaul will further energize the automotive sector, aligning seamlessly with the Make in India vision, by encouraging domestic manufacturing and stimulating demand across both urban and rural markets.”
Pointing to Hyundai’s global strategy, Kim highlighted initiatives such as the deployment of XCIENT fuel-cell trucks in North America under the HTWO Logistics initiative, the development of the IONIQ 5 autonomous robotaxi in Singapore, and Hyundai’s investments in Urban Air Mobility and micro-mobility.
“Guided by our global vision of Progress for Humanity, Hyundai remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping the future of mobility. We continue to lead innovation across all propulsion platforms – internal combustion engines, electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel-cell technology, and flex-fuel solutions – serving both mass-market consumers and logistics needs,” he said.
Kim underscored India’s strong foundation for sustainable mobility, citing government initiatives like FAME, Production Linked Incentives, and the adoption of E20 fuels. He stressed that under initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, the sector is becoming a key driver of self-reliance and global competitiveness. “Through a synergy of world-class technology and indigenous engineering talent, India is becoming a global hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
Laying out Hyundai’s roadmap, Kim pointed to five enablers: sustainable technology and innovation, building an EV ecosystem, harmonized policy frameworks, public-private partnerships, and ESG commitments. “Our Chennai manufacturing plant is on track to achieve the RE100 benchmark by the end of this calendar year, underscoring our commitment to renewable energy and ESG integration,” he added.
Calling for collaboration across OEMs, startups, academia, technology firms and government, Kim said: “The road ahead may be complex, but it is rich with promise. This is the moment for global collaboration and local innovation. It is time to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and commit ourselves to building a sustainable future for generations to come.”
He concluded by reaffirming Hyundai’s commitment to India’s mobility transformation. “Together with SIAM, the Government of India, our industry peers and the trust of our citizens, we are confident in shaping a future where Bharat leads not only in mobility, but in sustainability, innovation and inclusivity. India’s time is now. We have the opportunity to lead the world in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and transformative.”