GM and Hyundai collaboration details firm

GENERAL MOTORS and Hyundai Motor Company have announced plans for their first five co-developed vehicles, marking a significant milestone in their previously announced strategic collaboration.

In an announcement issued this week, the two companies said they will co-develop four vehicles for the Central and South American market, including a compact SUV, car, pick-up, and mid-sized pick-up, all with the flexibility to use either internal combustion or hybrid propulsion systems.

The duo expects sales of the co-developed vehicles to reach more than 800,000 units per annum once production is fully scaled.

It is understood GM will lead the development of the mid-sized truck platform, while Hyundai will take lead on the compact vehicle and related electric van.

The two companies will share common platforms and develop unique interiors and exteriors “consistent with their respective brands”.

Both GM and HMC confirmed design and engineering work is underway for the vehicle which will launch in 2028, with production of the electric commercial van to begin in the United States from as early as 2028.

“Hyundai’s strategic collaboration with GM will help us continue to deliver value and choice to our customers across multiple vehicle segments and markets,” said Hyundai Motor Company chief executive officer Jose Munoz.

“Our combined scale in North and South America helps us to more efficiently provide our customers more of what they want – beautifully designed, high-quality, safety focused vehicles with technology they appreciate.”

Adding to his colleague’s statement, General Motors senior vice president of procurement and supply chain Shilpan Amin said the vehicles announced today are targeted at the largest segments in the Central and South American markets, as well as the commercial segment in North America.

“By partnering together, GM and Hyundai will bring more choice to our customers faster, and at lower cost,” he said.

“These first co-developed vehicles clearly demonstrate how GM and Hyundai will leverage our complementary strengths and combined scale.”

As has been announced previously, the two companies have also planned for joint sourcing initiatives in North and South America for materials, transport, and logistics.

Further areas for potential joint operations include raw materials, components, and so-called “complex systems”.

GM and HMC have also agreed to explore collaboration on low-carbon emissions steel as part of their commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

The duo says it will continue to assess additional joint vehicle development programs for global markets, as well as collaboration opportunities across propulsion systems, including internal combustion engines, hybrid, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies.

Together, General Motors and Hyundai Motor Corporation plan to make more vehicles than any other single manufacturer in the world.

“Between us, we run nearly two dozen assembly plants, building cars, trucks, and SUVs spread across key markets worldwide,” the pair said in an issued statement.

“And we’re both in the top 50 for US patents, a clear sign that innovation drives what we do.”

Speaking on the matter this week, GM chief executive officer Mary Barra said that by teaming up, General Motors and Hyundai Motor Company can expand customer choice in key markets and strengthens our competitive edge.

“GM and Hyundai have complementary strengths and talented teams,” she explained.

“Our goal is to unlock the scale and creativity of both companies to deliver even more competitive vehicles to customers faster and more efficiently.

“We’re off to a fantastic start, and I can’t wait to see where else this collaboration takes us.”