Posted on Thursday 3 May 2007
Hyundai is considering whether to build production versions of its Veloster sport coupe concept, which starred at the recent Seoul Auto Show, as well as its Hellion crossover concept from last year’s LA show. Hyundai is hoping to lure a new generation of buyers, particularly younger ‘Generation Y’ customers.
Hyundai’s Wayne Killen, who spoke with Ward’s Auto, mentioned that there are several vehicles under consideration and that research is currently being completed both in the US and South Korea. Besides these two models, Killen revealed that a “sporty box” style of vehicle was also an option for the US but no final decision has been made.
The average age of Hyundai’s customers is markedly lower than its main rivals Toyota and Honda, but the carmaker is after an even younger demographic. “Right now we’re talking more about cars we can sell to the youth market. That’s the necessary first step,” he said, but just don’t expect a new budget brand similar to Toyota’s Scion.
Hyundai is still desperate for a “halo model,” the type of cars that grace the covers of magazines and draw customers to the brand. Killen also mentioned the Concept Genesis sedan that it unveiled at the recent New York Auto Show, adding that there were other models Hyundai was considering for its future lineup. In the meantime, it will launch the new European-inspired i30 compact wagon due in showrooms in the second half of the year.