The country's largest exporter of passenger cars Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) that used to be known for its popular small car Santro is now mostly known for its Creta SUV. Hyundai is now looking at bigger categories with the all-new Elantra and all-new Tucson. It is hoping to build relationship with these older brand names. The company is committed to introduce two new products every year in India till 2020. Y K Koo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hyundai Motor India Ltd, shares more. Excerpts:

What were the achievements of 2016 and what is your outlook for 2017?

It (2016) was a great year for Hyundai in India. We continued to build upon our strength of innovation through customer centricity, and strengthened our product portfolio with the introduction of all-new Elantra and all-new Tucson. Hyundai Motor India recorded highest-ever monthly domestic volume of 50,016 units, registered record cumulative sales of 64,372 units in October 2016.

In calendar year 2016, we would cross five-lakh production figure for the domestic market while maintaining our leadership position in exports. While we celebrated our 20th Foundation year in India, we rolled out fastest seven millionth car in industry from our state-of-the-art facility in Sriperumbudur. We are confident that 2017 will be a bigger and grander affair. Through our Tech Leadership, we will keep bringing futuristic and world-class products and technologies and will continue to win hearts and appreciation across the globe.

What do you think can be achieved in 2017?

The two qualities that have defined Hyundai’s last two decades are learning and innovation and in 2017, we intend to continue building upon these two aspects to get closer to our customers’ expectations. While we are committed to introduce new products in India every year till 2020, we are also refreshing the price value equation of our existing products. to enhance the reach of our modern premium portfolio across all strata of society. The rural markets are integral to Hyundai’s ambition and we are looking to expand both operations and outreach in these markets. We are orking towards developing an ecosystem of safer roads through our road safety programme - ‘Safe Move’ where-in we create awareness among children and their families on the importance of road safety.

How do you see the industry in 2017?

The Indian customers are upgrading from the entry-level to more advanced, feature rich cars that have distinctive presence on the roads. Product preferences in India are aspirational for the ‘Smart Buyers’ who lay great emphasis on value, technology and innovation. With a strong focus on both urban and rural markets, Hyundai will continue to strengthen its commitment to the Indian market with Hyundai’s 11 robust products in its portfolio.

What is the impact of demonetisation?

Demonetisation has reduced the consumer sentiments to buy new cars and hence curtailed spending. However, this is a short-term trend, the Indian auto industry has a bright future and 2017 will witness growth.

What can the government bring in 2017 to support the auto industry?

So far, GST is a positive step towards addressing the challenges of customers and various stakeholders. Positive investment climate is most important, supported by a long roadmap for introduction of technology with a structured tax regime in which implementation of GST will play a key role.

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