Hyundai, the South Korean carmaker, has appointed Yong Wha Kim as the new head of its research and development (R&D) department, effective 1 May. He replaces Jung Kook Park, who held the position for around one and a half years before stepping down to become a consultant for the company. Kim, an “internationally recognized authority in the field of engine control software”, joined Hyundai in 2015 and has led several key projects related to hardware and software integration strategies for vehicles.
In his new role, Kim will focus on advancing Hyundai’s R&D department, particularly in the integration of software and hardware during the transition to software-defined electric vehicles. This includes plans to integrate infotainment, electronics, autonomous driving, chassis, powertrain, and vehicle controls, all crucial areas in the development of new vehicle models that focus on electric drives, connectivity, and software.
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Hyundai’s mid-April investment plans aim to become one of the world’s top three electric car manufacturers by 2030. To achieve this goal, the company plans to invest up to 24 trillion won (equivalent to around 16.6 billion euros) in increasing production and exports. The appointment of Kim as the head of R&D reflects the company’s commitment to achieving this goal and driving innovation in the electric vehicle industry.
Kim’s predecessor, Park, is credited with creating a positive work environment within the R&D division based on his inclusive leadership and expertise in the field. Although he will remain associated with the group as an advisor, the carmaker has not specified his area of responsibility.
With Kim at the helm, Hyundai’s R&D department is poised to make significant strides in advancing the development of electric vehicles and the integration of software and hardware. The appointment of such a highly regarded expert in the field is a positive sign for the company’s future and its ability to achieve its ambitious goals in the electric vehicle market.
