Hyundai Launches its First Brazil-Exclusive Model
Hyundai Motor Brasil (HMB), a wholly owned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company, has launched its Brazil-exclusive model.
The HB20 compact hatchback will be the first model to be produced at Hyundai’s fully owned new plant in Piracicaba, which will officially hold an opening ceremony later this year. Production of the new vehicle will begin on Sept. 20, while sales will begin in early October.
“Unlike our other models currently offered in Brazil, HB20 is the first model strategically developed and produced exclusively for the Brazilian market,” said Chang Kyun Han, president of HMB.
[ Also Read: Brazil’s Global Ad Campaign to Attract Tourists ]All nine versions of the HB20 will have a comprehensive package of items offered as standard from entry levels: Hydraulic power steering, dual front airbags, air-conditioning, a spoiler with a built-in brake lights, a rear windshield wiper and storage compartments for all passengers.
The name “HB” stands for Hyundai Brasil, while the number “20” is the company’s characterization for vehicles in this segment, a category that includes models assembled on small or compact vehicle platforms.
[ Also Read: Brazil Goes Digital to Attract Travelers ]The HB family will also have sedan and crossover versions that will come to market during 2013. The three models will all be produced at Hyundai’s first plant in Brazil. The Piracicaba factory covers 1,390,000 square meters of land, of which 69,000 square meters will consist of facilities.
The plant is Hyundai’s seventh overseas manufacturing base outside South Korea, after Turkey, India, China, the United States, the Czech Republic and Russia. The company invested a total of US$ 600 million in the facilities.
HMB has already hired 1,600 employees with plans to increase this figure to 2,000 by 2013. Hyundai’s Piracicaba plant, together with its suppliers, will create an additional 3,000 jobs. It will also indirectly generate 20,000 jobs in the region.
