Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group Is World’s Sixth Largest Automaker in 2005
7 June 2006

(Seoul, Korea) The Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group ranks as the sixth largest automotive manufacturer in the world, according to the Detroit-based weekly Automotive News.

In Automotive News’ most recent survey of global automotive sales and production, Hyundai Motor Co. and its subsidiary Kia Motors Corp. registered an 11.6 percent jump in global sales in 2005 to 3,715,096 units. It was the largest percentage gain of any carmaker in the million-plus sales category. With it, Hyundai and Kia climbed one spot in the global rankings.

Hyundai has enjoyed double digit sales gains in the Chinese, Indian and Russian markets while in the more competitive North American and European markets, a more modest pace of growth has been registered.

The survey results were published in the June 5, 2006 edition of Automotive News and include sales of cars, light trucks, commercial vehicles and buses.

The steady climb up the charts is attributable to the leadership and vision of Chairman Chung Mong-Koo. Since taking the helm of Hyundai and Kia in 1999, he has made quality his mantra resulting in a dramatic turnaround in the reputation of the two brands thereby fueling increased sales. He has also spearhearded the company’s drive to invest in overseas manufacturing. During his tenure, Hyundai-Kia has passed Fiat, Honda, PSA/Peugeot-Citroen, Nissan and Renault in global sales to move into the number six sales spot.

*Source: Automotive News June 5, 2006 Edition

Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Co. has grown into the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group which includes over two dozen auto-related subsidiaries and affiliates. Employing over 68,000 people worldwide, Hyundai Motor posted US$26.1 billion in sales in 2004 (on a non-consolidated basis). Hyundai vehicles are sold in 193 countries through some 5000 dealerships and showrooms. Hyundai Motor Co. is a sponsor of the 2006 FIFA Germany World Cup. Further information about Hyundai Motor Co.