Euisun Chung, executive chair of Hyundai Motor Group, underscored the central role of customers in the company’s growth and in shaping the future of mobility during an interview with Automotive News, published Thursday.
The interview was conducted as the Hyundai founding family was honoured with the publication’s Centennial Award, recognizing its contribution to the global auto industry.
“Our greatest measure of success will always be our customers. Their satisfaction is the most important metric,” Chung said, crediting his ‘customer-first’ philosophy to the group’s founder and his grandfather, Chung Ju-yung.
He recalled how his grandfather believed in “following the flow of the times” and focusing on people, adding that the principle of listening to customers continues to guide Hyundai’s direction.
Chung stressed that technological advancement must always serve people. “Technology means nothing if it doesn’t serve a real human need. That’s why we’ve always been laser-focused on our customers, constantly pushing to improve safety and quality, value and the experience we offer at every touchpoint, from design to digital services,” he said.
Looking ahead, Chung identified software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and artificial intelligence (AI) as the next defining forces in mobility. “We’re entering an era that will see a shift from horsepower to processing power. It’s not just about how cars drive. It’s about how they think, learn, and evolve,” he said.
On global strategy, Chung emphasized Hyundai’s selective approach to partnerships. “We don’t just partner for the sake of it. We partner when it helps us move faster, think bigger, and serve our customers better. Collaboration isn’t optional anymore, it’s essential,” he noted.
He added that the group will place greater emphasis on joint technology development and supply chain synergies rather than pursuing traditional mergers and acquisitions, as it continues to strengthen its global capabilities.
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