Hyundai Motor Group Leaders Honored at Automotive News Centennial Awards

SEOUL/TURIN, June 13, 2025 – Hyundai Motor Group proudly announces that its distinguished design leaders, Luc Donckerwolke and Peter Schreyer, have been awarded the prestigious Automotive News Centennial Awards. This recognition, presented during the Automotive News Europe Congress held in Turin, Italy, celebrates the remarkable contributions of individuals whose innovation and leadership have significantly impacted the global automotive industry. The awards commemorate the 100th anniversary of Automotive News, a leading publication in the automotive sector.

Luc Donckerwolke, the Group's President, Chief Design Officer, and Chief Creative Officer, was acknowledged for his transformative role in shaping the design strategy across Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. His vision has pushed creative boundaries, resulting in vehicles that not only incorporate cutting-edge technology but also emphasize sustainability and design excellence. Donckerwolke stated, "I am deeply honored to receive this award. This recognition is a testament to Hyundai Motor Group’s belief in design as a driving force for innovation and identity. I share this award with all the talented teams that inspire me every day and work relentlessly to challenge the status quo."

Peter Schreyer, who recently retired as the Group's President and Chief Design Officer, was also recognized for his pivotal role in redefining the Hyundai and Kia brands. Schreyer, known for introducing the iconic ‘tiger nose’ grille at Kia, emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving design excellence, stating, "It is an incredible honor to receive this award. It belongs to the many creative and dedicated teams I’ve had the privilege to work with."

Additionally, legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro was honored for his foundational contributions to Hyundai, particularly for his work on the original Pony model and the Pony Coupe concept. His innovative designs have inspired a generation of automotive designers, including both Donckerwolke and Schreyer.

The Automotive News Centennial Awards, as articulated by KC Crain, President and CEO of Crain Communications, aim to highlight the transformative impact of design in the automotive industry. Crain stated, "Peter Schreyer and Luc Donckerwolke have helped redefine what modern automotive design means – not just for Hyundai Motor Group, but for the entire industry. Their bold creativity and leadership have elevated the role of design as a strategic force."

Hyundai Motor Group’s commitment to design as a strategic differentiator is evident in its ongoing efforts to blend human-centered innovations with world-class design leadership. This recognition further underscores the Group's mission of shaping the mobility landscape through creativity and collaboration.

As Hyundai Motor Group continues to innovate and expand its influence in the automotive sector, the legacy of its design leaders will undoubtedly inspire future generations of designers. The Automotive News Centennial Awards serve not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a beacon for the future of automotive design.