Hyundai Wants You To Snap Out Of It With Its Super Bowl Commercials [w/VIDEO]

In what Hyundai likes to call “a group therapy session,” the automaker’s Super Bowl Ads to air for the first time during the Big Game on February 6 will comprise three TV spots aimed at brainwashing consumers into turning their attention towards the company’s 2011 Elantra and Sonata Hybrid models.

Specifically, Hyundai will begin promoting the new Elantra with a spot called "Hypnotized", followed by a healing session with an ad called "Deprogramming". These two will be followed by a third spot starring the 2011 Sonata Hybrid, titled “Anachronistic City”.

“Both offer the all-new 2011 Elantra as treatment for the malaise afflicting the long-suffering compact car shopper,” Hyundai says. “Hyundai marks its fourth consecutive year as a Super Bowl advertiser by deprogramming 100 million Americans tuned in to watch the game.”

The three spots are themed “Snap Out of It” and feature Hyundai's 2011 "New Thinking, New Possibilities" brand vision. Taken separately, Hypnotized will air in the game's first quarter, followed by Deprogramming in the third quarter, and ending with the Anachronistic City in the fourth.

"We love the Super Bowl's ability to transform over 100 million Americans into advertising aficionados, so we went with a playful theme that ties a marketing-driven conspiracy theory to our fresh take on the compact car segment, the 40-mpg Elantra," said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "Building from the first two Elantra ads in the AFC Championship Game, and 10 viral spots online right now, the Super Bowl shifts the campaign into top gear with what may be the biggest group therapy hypnosis session ever attempted."

[Source: Hyundai]

"Hypnotize"



"Deprogramming"



"Anachronistic City"

Hyundai Sonata Named 2011 International Car of the Year

Hyundai continues to break down barriers illustrating its consumer lifestyle compatibility with the 2011 International Car of the Year (ICOTY) win for the all-new Sonata. The award was presented at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The ICOTY Awards honor vehicles based on lifestyle compatibility and the emotional connection between car and consumer.


“With a completely new look for 2011, the Sonata really took us by surprise,” said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTY Executive Producer. “Hyundai laces the new Sonata with serious hardware including sporty suspension tuning and a strong powertrain that achieves best-in-class fuel economy scores. Combine that with a stunning shape and design, it truly is a complete package that will satisfy the emotional connection consumers seek when shopping for a mid-size sedan.”

“We’re delighted the ICOTY committee validated the choice of over 200,000 new Sonata owners in North America in 2010,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “The 2011 Sonata shows the power of Hyundai’s product recipe – industry-leading fuel economy, engaging design, and great quality – which we’ll continue to enhance with new models like the 2011 Elantra and the 2012 Veloster.”

[Source: Hyundai]

Report: Hyundai Mulling Plug-In Sonata Hybrid

A report from PlugInCars.com suggests that Hyundai‘s endless march towards global domination isn’t letting up, and the next phase of their product strategy involves both a Prius competitor and a plug-in variant of the Sonata Hybrid.

According to Mike O’Brien, Hyundai’s head of product planning, the Sonata plug-in Hybrid would require little in the way of engineering to make it ready. “Other manufacturers’ hybrid systems were developed in such a way to not allow them to easily develop plug-in hybrids,” he said. “For the Sonata Hybrid to become a plug-in hybrid, really all we need are bigger batteries—the basic technology platform is already designed to support a plug-in variation.”

According to O’Brien, we’ll see something within the next 12 months at one of the major auto shows. Let the speculation games begin!

[Source: Plug-in Cars]

Milestone: Hyundai Sold 200,000 Sonata's in 2010

Wonder why you’re seeing so many new Hyundai Sonata models on the road? Well, that’s because the Korean automaker sold a total of 200,000 units of the new Sonatas in North America in 2010, a huge milestone for the Sonata during a record-setting year in which Hyundai sold more than 530,000 vehicles in the United States and more than 110,000 in Canada.

“Sonata has delivered some pretty incredible results for us this year,” says John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. “Sonata is the Hyundai brand and it’s appropriate that it has led our best year ever. Sonata’s innovation has reset the most hotly contested, largest segment in the U.S. car market, with Sonata delivering more year-over-year retail sales growth – about 90,000 units – than any other car in the entire industry.”

Sales of the Sonata in the stateside were up 117 percent and 65 percent overall in the U.S. marking its best year ever. Canadian sales were up 60 percent.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Priced from $26,545, Goes on Sale Next Month

The Sonata is likely Hyundai's best success story this year, and the awaited hybrid version is heading to dealers next month with a list price of $26,545, which includes the $750 destination fee.

Your $26,545 bank withdrawal nets a Sonata equipped with Hyundai's Direct Hybrid Blue Drive system. A 2.4-liter inline-four finds itself matched with an electric traction motor and power is sent through a six-speed automatic transmission. Combined output is 206 horsepower and 193 pound-feet of torque, and an all-electric drive speed of up to 62 mph is claimed, though the gas-fed engine may need to pulse on and off to help the electric motor. Outside, the front end was re-sculpted in the name of efficiency, leaving the hybrid sedan with fuel economy figures of 36 city/40 highway mpg.

For an extra $5000, the Sonata Hybrid's Premium Package adds a whole host of niceties, including a panoramic sunroof, navigation, an Infinity sound system, rearview camera, glossy black door surround, 17-inch alloy wheels, and leather seats and trim.

The Sonata Hybrid's current competition includes the Ford Fusion Hybrid ($28,990), Nissan Altima Hybrid ($27,530), Toyota Camry Hybrid ($27,335), and, soon, the Kia Optima Hybrid (price not announced).

[Source: Hyundai]

2011 Hyundai Sonata Named Car and Driver "10Best"

The all-new 2011 Hyundai Sonata has been named one of the “10Best Cars for 2011” by Car and Driver, marking the first time a Hyundai product has received the recognition by the editors of Car and Driver.


“We're delighted so many American consumers have put a 2011 Sonata in their driveway this year,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. “Achieving our first Car and Driver ‘10Best’ award is tasty icing on the cake, and a tribute to the team of global engineers, California designers, and Alabama plant associates that made this game-changing product a reality.”

According to Car and Driver, the “10Best” award celebrates the best cars on sale in America for less than $80,000. Testing takes place over a week on public roads in rural Michigan. The staff tested more than 60 new cars before selecting the “10Best.”

“In our testing, we are looking for those automobiles that deliver spectacular value, real driver engagement and the highest fulfillment of their intended missions,” said Eddie Alterman, Car and Driver editor-in-chief. “It’s a real workout and only the best cars on the market emerge victorious.”

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata was introduced earlier this year. Sonata brings to the market a number of breakthroughs previously unheard of in the mid-size family sedan segment including standout design, a standard gasoline direct injected engine that delivers 35 miles per gallon on the highway, an optional 274-horsepower 4-cylinder turbo and a soon-to-be-introduced hybrid model.

Sonata sales are up 64 percent over last year on the strength of the new model. Sonata has been the most “shopped” midsize car in the market for five of the past six months according to Compete, an automotive market analysis firm.

“All of our business metrics are pointed in the right direction,” said Krafcik. “Retail sales are up. Incentive spending is down. Our residuals are among the strongest in the industry. And cars like Sonata are driving more and more smart shoppers to Hyundai.”

The full list of 2011's 10 Best Cars comprised of the following models:

BMW 3-SERIES/M3
CADILLAC CTS-V
CHEVROLET VOLT
FORD MUSTANG GT
HONDA ACCORD
HONDA FIT
HYUNDAI SONATA
MAZDA MX-5 MIATA
PORSCHE BOXSTER/CAYMAN
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF/GTI

The complete story on the “10Best” is available in the January issue of Car and Driver and at CarandDriver.com.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Hyundai Sonata Turbo to be Spruced Up For SEMA 2010 [Motor Trend]

Nate Martinez [Motor Trend] - Joining Hyundai's ARK Performance Genesis Coupe time attack car at this year's SEMA Show will be a pearl white 2011 Sonata Turbo built with luxury and style in mind. Unfortunately, this is the only teaser image we received from Hyundai.

Fabricators say that Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, and Porsche sports cars inspired their design direction. Its aggressive exterior lines, for example, take much from the Brabus CLS Rocket. The car rides on 20-inch one-piece wheels as well, much like the Rocket.READ MORE at the link below!

[Source: Motor Trend]

2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Turbo Starting At $24,145*

Hyundai Motor America has announced pricing for its all-new Sonata 2.0T Turbo, starting at $24,145 MSRP for the Sonata SE 2.0T and $27,045 for the Sonata Limited 2.0T. *The MSRP excludes a $720 destination charge.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine produces 274 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque from 1750-4500 rpm with regular fuel, while delivering 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Hyundai's 2.0T engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger that, when combined with the GDI system, minimizes turbocharger lag and results in crisp, responsive power delivery.

The Sonata SE 2.0T adds an upgraded fully automatic temperature control system, in addition to packing an impressive list of standard equipment from the non-turbo SE trim. Some of these features include a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, 18-inch hyper-silver alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, proximity entry with keyless start, and SE leather bolster/cloth insert sport seats.

The Sonata Limited 2.0T adds to the generous equipment list of the non-turbo Limited with the SE's 18-inch alloys, dual exhausts, and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The Limited already comes with amenities such as power tilt/slide sunroof, side mirror turn signal indicators, leather trimmed interior, heated front and rear seats, Dimension premium speakers with subwoofer/external amplifier, HD Radio, and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai to Recall 140000 Sonatas in US

Hyundai will recall about 139,500 units of the 2011 Sonata in the U.S. because of steering issues that could result in a loss of or reduction in maneuvering capability amid increased attention among automakers on product quality.

The year 2011 Sonata sedans manufactured between Dec. 11, 2009, and Sept. 10, 2010, are subject to the plan, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said in a statement on its website. Hyundai Motor America informed the agency it is voluntarily initiating a safety recall of Sonata sedans to inspect the steering issues, the automaker said in an e-mailed statement yesterday.

Hyundai said there were fewer than 10 vehicles with the steering issues and no accidents or injuries have occurred as a result of this condition. The automaker is expected to begin the recall in October, according to NHTSA, which opened a preliminary probe into steering issues on the model in August.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Hyundai Sonata Earns Top Marks from Consumer Reports

The redesigned Hyundai Sonata has earned an “excellent” score in testing by Consumer Reports, making it one of the top-rated family sedans and scoring just under the four-cylinder Nissan Altima.

The magazine said that the Sonata has “agile handling, a steady ride, good accommodations, easy-to-use controls, and impressive performance and fuel economy for the class.”

Two freshened versions of the Nissan Altima posted “excellent” overall scores, topping tests of four family sedans for the August 2010 issue. Also in the test group were the Suzuki Kizashi, which earned an “excellent” score overall, and the Chevrolet Impala, which earned “good.”

While both versions of the Altima are “recommended,” the Kizashi and Sonata were not recommended because they are too new for Consumer Reports to have reliability data, and the Impala scored too low in testing. Recommended vehicles must perform well in tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on the magazine’s annual auto survey, and perform at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Hyundai Sells 5 Million Sonatas Worldwide

“The five million mark is a testament to Hyundai’s continuous quality improvement, technological advancement and differentiated design,” said Steve S. Yang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor. “It’s Korea’s No. 1 sedan and now aims to be a game changer for the segment worldwide.”

Of the total, 2.7 million units were sold in Korea while 2.3 million were sold in overseas markets. The U.S. was the biggest market for Sonata outside Korea with 1.3 million cumulative sales. Sales of Sonata from overseas markets accounted for two-thirds of total sales this year, demonstrating the growing popularity of the latest version abroad.

When the cars are lined up bumper to bumper (overall length 4,820 mm), the length is equivalent to one round trip between Seoul and New York (one-way distance 11,000 km). When the cars are piled up (overall height 1,470 mm), the 5 million units are about 800 times the height of the Mount Everest (8,848m).

Sonata is now entering its sixth generation since its launch in 1985, gaining steady popularity worldwide as Hyundai’s leading sedan and competing head to head against Toyota’s Camry and Honda’s Accord.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Genesis and Sonata Named to Edmunds.com’s Top Best Dark-Horse Cars List

Edmunds.com named both the 2010 Hyundai Genesis and 2011 Hyundai Sonata to its Top 10 Best Dark-Horse Cars of 2010 list.

"The Top 10 Best Dark-Horse Cars of 2010 represent the true dark horses in the market – the cars that somehow fly just below the radar when it comes to consumer awareness, but nevertheless have a lot to offer shoppers on the hunt for quality and value," Hyundai reported.

“The all-new Sonata is a smart buy with modern style, top-tier quality and outstanding residual value. Couple that with a four-cylinder engine producing class-leading fuel economy and the power of a larger V6, and the Sonata should definitely be on consumer shopping lists in the mid-size sedan segment,” said Scott Margason, director of product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Additionally, the North American Car of the Year-winning Genesis continues to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments.”

“Although they may not have the same level of recognition as say the Ford Explorer, Honda Civic or Toyota Camry, these cars offer great value and quality, and definitely should be on more consumers’ shopping lists,” said Karl Brauer, Senior Analyst and Editor at Large for Edmunds.com.

[Source: Edmunds]

Hyundai Sonata: Most-Viewed Midsize Sedan on AutoTrader.com in March

Hyundai's all-new Sonata midsize sedan was AutoTrader.com’s most-viewed vehicle in its class during the month of March. For the first time ever, Sonata surpassed competitors that include Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima. AutoTrader.com recorded 16.5 million unique monthly visitors in March, the highest traffic the company had ever experienced.

“Industry wide, traffic seems to be increasing and the Sonata is hitting showrooms at an ideal time to capitalize on renewed consumer interest in cars,” said Scott Margason, director of product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Sonata’s new design identity is drawing significant shopper attention, motivating and driving consumers to include it on their list when considering their next car purchase.”

Hyundai’s all-new 2011 Sonata represents a modern approach to the traditional midsize sedan segment by using only advanced four-cylinder engines, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. The Sonata launched with a new Theta II 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle offers class-leading fuel economy of 22 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 198 horsepower standard.

Hyundai also announced 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and Sonata Hybrid models last week at the New York International Auto Show, rounding out an exciting new 2011 Sonata lineup.

[Source: Hyundai]

New York 2010: Hyundai Unveils 274-HP Sonata Turbo (2.0T), Gets 34 MPG Hwy. Rating

Hyundai today debuted the all-new 2011 Sonata 2.0T, powered by the brand's new 2.0L turbocharged version of its GDI 4-cylinder engine, at the 2010 New York Auto Show.

The long-awaited Sonata 2.0T is fitted with a 2.0L Theta II turbocharged GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine that churns out 274 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque across a broad rpm range – 1,800 rpm – 4,500 rpm. The twin-scroll turbo system design minimizes turbocharger lag and gives the Sonata 2.0T 4-cylinder more power than many V6 engines, while running on regular fuel.

The new 2.0L turbocharged gasoline direct-injection engine is part of Hyundai’s Blue Drive strategy. Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, Hyundai says that the Sonata 2.0T will deliver an estimated fuel-economy of 22/34 mpg (city/highway).

“The Sonata 2.0T is a great example of what our Blue Drive product strategy is doing for consumers,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. “Think about it – more horsepower than any of our V6 competitors, with better gas mileage than any competitive 4-cylinder model. We’re not fans of compromising at Hyundai, and the Sonata really demonstrates this aspect of our business approach.”

The 2.0T engine will be available on the SE and Limited trim level, with the 2.0T Limited getting additional upgrades such as panoramic roof and leather seating. Pricing details will be announced closer to its scheduled sales launch in late 2010.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading to view more images.

New York 2010: All-New Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Gets Unique Look and Achieves 37/39 MPG

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the Korean company's first shot at the hybrid segment and it's not messing around. The Sonata Hybrid boasts the highest combined horsepower output of any hybrid sedan in its class and an expected best-in-class EPA highway rating of 39 mpg, not to mention the first use of lithium-polymer batteries in the automotive industry. That's pretty strong out of the gate.

Here are the basics: The Sonata Hybrid combines Hyundai's 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter Theta II inline-4 with a 30-kilowatt electric motor. This particular Theta engine runs on the Atkinson cycle and uses continuously variable valve timing along with several friction-reducing technologies to boost efficiency by 10 percent compared to the standard Theta power plant. This hybrid powertrain's combined output of 209 hp tops all sedans in the class, while the Sonata Hybrid also happens to be one of the lightest midsize hybrid sedans at 3,457 pounds.

Like the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion hybrids, the Sonata Hybrid can run on electric power alone, but Hyundai also claims its car can achieve 100 km/h (62 mph) in the electric mode. This is one of the reasons why the Sonata delivers such an impressive highway mileage number. The six-speed automatic transmission comes from Hyundai, but this application puts an electric motor in place of the torque converter, creating a hybrid powertrain that is more efficient and less costly than the CVTs used by its competitors, Hyundai says. More conventional elements of the Sonata Hybrid include a regenerative brake system, start/stop technology and an electric air-conditioning compressor.

Continue reading for the full article and more hi-res images.

You might not recognize the phrase "lithium polymer" in reference to the Sonata's batteries, as this is the first automotive application of the technology. Hyundai says the batteries are smaller, lighter and more durable than both nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries. For instance, the Sonata's battery pack weighs 28 pounds less than the one used in the Toyota Camry. It's also easier to package, which results in less intrusion into the trunk area.

In order to visually differentiate the Sonata Hybrid from the conventional Sonata, Hyundai has added a unique front fascia with a hexagonal grille, revised rocker panels, unique wheel designs and, of course, plenty of hybrid badging. Inside the cabin, the Sonata Hybrid also includes a technology display that gives drivers information on the available charge, power flow through the drive system and overall efficiency. It uses pretty colors to display it all, too.

NY: Hyundai Releases Teaser of All-New Sonata Hybrid

After announcing it would launch a hybrid version of its shapely Sonata sedan way back at the 2009 LA auto show, Hyundai sent out this teaser photo of the 2011 Sonata Hybrid before its official debut at the 2010 New York auto show.

We’ve yet to see the car in its entirety, but it appears the Sonata Hybrid receives a significant makeover to accompany its hybrid driveline. The entire front fascia is revised, incorporating a very thin upper grille accompanied by a larger aperture positioned lower in the bumper. Headlamps and foglamps are also restyled, and it appears the former incorporate Audi-like LED running lamps.

For the most part, expect the 2011 Sonata Hybrid to closely resemble the prototype Blue Drive hybrid system Hyundai first showcased at the 2008 Los Angeles auto show. A 30 kW (41 hp) electric motor will likely be sandwiched between a 2.4-liter “Theta II” inline four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic transmission. As a parallel hybrid, the Sonata Hybrid can be propelled either by the electric motor alone or a combination of the two power sources.

Perhaps most interesting is the battery pack -- instead of following the crowd and developing lithium ion batteries, Hyundai -- along with partner LG Chem -- has pursued lithium polymer battery packs. For the most part, the battery chemistries are very similar, but instead of using a liquid electrolyte, lithium polymer cells use a polymer-based gel. As a result, each battery cell can be built in a smaller package. Hyundai says an entire lithium polymer pack can be 20 percent smaller than a lithium-ion battery -- which is already roughly 50 percent smaller than a traditional nickel metal hydride design.

Expect more details, specifications, and photos to emerge closer to the car’s New York debut on March 31.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Surpasses Toyota and Honda in Brand Loyalty

According to the latest Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence data, Hyundai in the US recently surpassed Honda and Toyota when it comes to making customers happy and retaining them. In addition, Hyundai resale values have been outperforming the car segment average, which is something reserved only for Toyota and Honda in our market. The all-new 2011 Sonata was also the fifth most researched car in kbb.com’s Top 10 Most-Researched New Vehicles list.

Comparing February 2010 data to Q4 2009, Hyundai owners looking at new models within the brand increased by 10.4% to 56.3%, good enough for it to top the chart for the first time, up from third place in Q4 2009. In the same timeframe, Toyota fell from top to third spot while Honda held steady at second place. Toyota owners considering a repeat purchase fell by 4.4% to 53.3%. Honda’s score is 55.8%.

At the same time, Kelley Blue Book Values data for Feb 2010 showed that Hyundai outperformed the overall car segment average by a healthy margin, increasing 2% month-over-month, relative to a 0.3% increase for the entire car segment.

“Hyundai is clearly benefiting from ‘a perfect storm’ – a result of introducing passionate new products like the 2011 Sonata and 2010 Tucson, while Honda’s mainstream vehicles like the CR-V and Accord are a bit stale in the marketplace and Toyota is experiencing a huge consumer perception crisis,” said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

This should be another warning sign for the Japanese carmakers, whose models like the Accord and Camry have deep roots in the US top ten best sellers list. Hyundai, along with sister brand Kia and Subaru, were the only carmakers to have increased market share in a troubled 2009.

[Source: Kelley Blue Book]

Hyundai Issues Recall and Sales Halt of 2011 Sonata

Hyundai Motor America has informed regulators that the front door-lock modules on 2011 Sonatas can stick, and will notify customers of a recall. Consequently, the brand has followed suit with a temporary sales halt on its most popular offering. The recall affects 1,300 sold units of the 2011 Sonata in the United States, as well as 46,000 units manufactured and sold in South Korea. The new Sonata has been available in South Korea since September 2009, and was launched in the U.S. this month.

Hyundai said it has received complaints from customers but there haven’t been any reported accidents or injuries related to this problem. Hyundai hopes to rectify this issue quickly and not have a repeat of Toyota’s misfortune.

With the 2011 model going on sale two weeks ago in the U.S. 5,000 cars have been made in total and of that 1,300 have been sold. It is not known how many of the 1,300 will have faulty locks.

The problem occurs when the front seat passenger tries to open the door from the inside while holding down the lock button. When this happens the interior door handle doesn’t return to its normal position and the door will not shut completely. Pressing the lock button again will reset the handle allowing the door to work correctly.

With replacement parts reaching dealerships tomorrow the stop-sale will be lifted as soon as the repairs are made. The repairs consist of the replacement of the front door-lock mechanism.

[Source: Hyundai]

IIHS Names New Hyundai Sonata As Top Safety Pick

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has selected the 2011 Hyundai Sonata model as the Top Safety Pick this year. This award has been given to the vehicle after it successfully completed a list of crash testing performed by the IIHS.

For winning the Top Safety Pick award, a car must earn the highest rating of “good” in front, side, rear and rollover crash tests. In addition to the car’s ability to handle itself well in all these test categories, it should have the electronic stability control (ECS) readily available as an option. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ESC reduces single-vehicle crashes by 35 percent and single-vehicle fatalities by 30 percent in passenger cars.

Hyundai is committed to both active and passive safety technology leadership. In addition to ECS, the Sonata has advanced airbag technology and a robust ultra-high-strength steel body structure. It provides six airbags- dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags along with active front-seat head restraints. The Anti-lock Breaking System (ABS) incorporates the Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) technology.

A new roof strength test was added to the list of qualifications this year, making the selection procedure much tougher than the earlier ones. The roof strength must be double than that of the current Federal requirements, in order to guarantee safety in a rollover accident, says the new rule. Because of this new rule, many of the earlier vehicles that were awarded the Top Safety Pick in past years were discarded in 2010. While other Hyundai models like the Genesis have been named Top Safety Picks earlier, this is the first time a Sonata has received this honor.

[Source: IIHS via Hyundai Motor America]

Hyundai Builds One Millionth Car in the US

Hyundai has officially produced one million vehicles in the United States. Last week the company celebrated the milestone as a white 2010 Sonata rolled off the assembly line at its only U.S. plant in Montgomery, Alabama.

The milestone was reached in a relatively quick fashion, as the plant has been open a mere four and a half years. Alabama production of the fifth-generation Sonata started in May of 2006, while the second-generation Santa Fe began in April of 2006. The Sonata thus far has makes up roughly 66 percent of production while the Santa Fe accounts for 34 percent.

The Montgomery plant employs some 2700 workers and affects the region annually by $420 million. The plant will produce the all-new 2011 Sonata seen last week at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

[Source: Hyundai]

PRESS RELEASE: ONE MILLIONTH VEHICLE ROLLS OFF HYUNDAI MOTOR MANUFACTURING ALABAMA ASSEMBLY LINE

Montgomery, Ala., November 30, 2009 - Today, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) President and CEO H.I. Kim, drove HMMA's 1,000,000 vehicle - a 2010 Sonata - off the assembly line with Mayor Todd Strange, Hyo-Seung Kim, CEO and President of Sejong and HMMA Team Member Angela Collins joining him in Hyundai's top-selling vehicle in North America.
"Our guests of honor today are without a doubt the team members wearing the Hyundai logo on their chest," H.I. Kim proudly exclaimed to the crowd gathered for the ceremony. "We've over came many challenges since production began in 2005 and through it all our Team Members never turned away from those challenges. It is because of you that we were able to accomplish this tremendous milestone."

In a little more than four and one-half years, HMMA reached the 1,000,000 vehicle mark. The plant has produced two different vehicles since 2006, the Sonata and Santa Fe.

A total of 655,496 Sonatas and 344,504 Santa Fes were built to reach this achievement in the plant's short history.

"Most of you had never worked in automobile plant, but you embraced the opportunity to be trained to do a brand new job, with brand new equipment in a brand new manufacturing facility," explained Rick Neal, HMMA vice president and general counsel. "You learned to build cars in a very short time. Your vehicles have won numerous awards because you worked together as one team to build world class, high quality Hyundai vehicles. Congratulations to each and every one of you."

Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange, who helped bring Hyundai to Alabama during his tenure as director of the Alabama Development Office, congratulated Team Members for reaching 1,000,000 vehicles and helping to expand the automotive manufacturing sector in Alabama. Mayor Strange was one of the first representatives from Alabama to meet with Hyundai executives. More than eight years ago, on Thanksgiving Day, he flew to Seoul, South Korea to lure the global company to Montgomery.

Carver Senior High School's Drum Line, under the direction of Stephen Langford, entertained everyone with a raucous performance as the 2010 Sonata traveled down the quality inspection line. Plus, team members enjoyed spraying confetti over the sedan as it exited the line.

HMMA started producing Sonatas in May 2005. Santa Fes were added to the assembly lines in April 2006. The plant is currently manufacturing the 2010 Santa Fe and will soon begin assembling the "all new" 2011 Sonata.

HMMA employs more than 2,700 team members and has an annual economic impact of $420 million on the River Region.