Hyundai Motor Unveils China-Exclusive Elantra at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show

BEIJING – Apr 24, 2012: Hyundai Motor Company, whose joint venture in China is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, today unveiled its China-exclusive “Langdong,” (known as Elantra in Australia) and its all-new Santa Fe at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, held at the China International Exhibition Centre.

Langdong, which translates as “dynamic (car) for the young, new generation,” is based on Hyundai Motor’s best-selling and multi-award winning Elantra,which has captured the hearts of customers worldwide. Together with its all-new third-generation Santa Fe, Hyundai aims to boost its mid- to-large-sized vehicle offerings in China and raise its brand image.

“A decade ago, Hyundai was known for making only small cars. Today, our Equus and Genesis* luxury cars compete with the best vehicles that Europe can make,” Seung-Tack Kim, Executive Vice President & COO of Hyundai Motor’s Global Business Division, said in Beijing today. “Ten years ago, we were a follower in the auto industry. Today, we are a leader – and ready for the future.”

Langdong will be produced at Hyundai’s new production plant in Beijing in the second half of this year, and is expected to accelerate the upward momentum for Hyundai in the world’s largest auto market. Beijing Hyundai Motor Co. (BHMC), Hyundai’s joint venture in China, is currently building a third plant, which will raise its maximum production capacity to one million units annually.

Inspiration for the Langdong is derived from a design concept called ‘Wind Craft’, part of Hyundai’s larger design philosophy of Fluidic Sculpture, which has been applied to the company’s entire lineup since 2009. The aggressive front-end design of Langdong, with its wraparound headlights, creates a feeling of motion and strength. The streamlined character line on the side volume sweeps back dramatically toward the rear, giving the entire vehicle the appearance of having been crafted by the wind.

Also at Beijing, Hyundai unveiled its next-generation Santa Fe, which made its world premiere at the 2012 New York International Auto Show earlier this month. The next-generation Santa Fe showcases the brand’s cutting-edge capabilities through its innovative design, impressive fuel economy and a host of advanced safety and occupant comfort features.

The exterior of the next-generation Santa Fe invokes the impression of irrepressible motion through its own design concept called ‘Storm Edge’, capturing strong and dynamic images created by nature during the formation of a storm. The futuristic and urban-style design, of Santa Fe with its bold signature hexagonal front grille is instantly recognisable as a Hyundai.

Hyundai believes the next-generation Santa Fe, which will begin sales in China in the second half of this year, will suit the growing number of families with two or more children seeking that the convenience of size combined with the flexibility and capability of a crossover vehicle.

Alongside Langdong and the next-generation Santa Fe, Hyundai also displayed its top luxury vehicles, as well as its latest powertrain technologies and eco-friendly lineup, including its Extended Range Electric Vehicle concept car i-oniq, the Sonata Hybrid, BlueOn and its ix35 FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle).