Hyundai Showcases EV Leadership at EV Trend Korea 2025 Amid Global Sales Dip

Hyundai’s Global News Update: June 2025

Hyundai Motor Group has demonstrated strong leadership in electrification at EV Trend Korea 2025 while facing mixed global sales results. Key highlights include the unveiling of the Ioniq 9 and All-New Nexo, a strategic push into Australia’s ute market, and a 7.6% sales decline in India. The company continues to innovate with digital services and new models like the Elexio electric SUV.

Electrification Leadership at EV Trend Korea 2025

Hyundai showcased its latest EV and hydrogen fuel cell technologies at Seoul’s EV Trend Korea 2025, held from June 3–5. The event featured the Ioniq 9, Hyundai’s flagship electric SUV launched in February, and the All-New Nexo, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle redesigned after seven years. Attendees experienced Hyundai’s "EV EveryCare" services and the Nexo’s Route Planner, which provides real-time hydrogen station data and energy flow analytics.

May 2025 Global Sales Performance

Hyundai reported a 1.7% year-over-year decline in global sales for May 2025, selling 351,174 units. Domestic sales in South Korea fell by 5.2%, while international sales dipped 0.9%. The Genesis luxury brand sold 9,517 units domestically, maintaining steady demand for premium models.

Region	Sales (Units)	Change (YoY)
South Korea	58,966	-5.2%
Overseas	292,208	-0.9%

Hyundai attributed the decline to geopolitical uncertainties but emphasized plans to boost hybrid vehicle sales and introduce next-gen models to regain momentum.

Strategic Expansion in Australia

Hyundai Capital Australia launched Kia Finance, completing its financial services coverage for all Hyundai Motor Group brands (Hyundai, Genesis, Kia). The company also revealed plans to enter Australia’s competitive ute market via a partnership with General Motors. CEO Don Romano confirmed a three-year production roadmap, targeting the Toyota HiLux-dominated segment.

New Models and Digital Innovation

The Elexio, a mid-size electric SUV based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, is slated for an Australian mid-2026 launch. With a 700km CLTC range, it will compete with the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7. Hyundai’s MyHyundai with Bluelink app retained its #1 ranking in J.D. Power’s 2025 EV App Report, scoring 820/1,000 for features like in-app charging and remote controls.

Challenges in Key Markets

In India, Hyundai’s sales dropped 7.6% YoY to 58,701 units due to production halts, slipping to fourth place. Conversely, Kia India saw a 14.4% sales increase. Hyundai plans to rebound with the second-gen Venue SUV and a new Tamil Nadu plant targeting 1 million annual units.

The U.S. steel tariff hike to 50% threatens Hyundai Steel’s $5.8B Louisiana plant. South Korea, the fourth-largest steel exporter to the U.S., is evaluating countermeasures.

Conclusion and Outlook

Hyundai remains a leader in electrification and digital innovation but faces headwinds in key markets. The company’s focus on hybrid models, localized production, and strategic partnerships will be critical to navigating 2025’s challenges. Upcoming launches like the Elexio and expanded financial services are expected to drive growth in H2.

Hyundai, Electric Vehicles, Ioniq 9, Nexo, EV Trend Korea, Australian Market, Elexio SUV, Global Sales, Steel Tariffs, Automotive Innovation