Former President and CEO of Hyundai Motor UK, Tony Whitehorn, was honoured at the annual AM Awards as he was officially inducted into the AM Hall of Fame. His 13-year tenure at Hyundai witnessed a significant increase in annual sales, as the company grew from selling 28,000 units in 2008 to over 93,000 in 2017.
Throughout his leadership, Tony was able to guide Hyundai UK to success, leading to the company being recognised as a top ten car manufacturer in the UK. His innovative strategies and dynamic leadership have left a lasting impact on the brand, which has continued under the stewardship of his successor, Ashley Andrew, who now serves as Managing Director after Tony’s departure in 2018.
The accomplishments of Hyundai Motor UK did not go unnoticed, as the company also received the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year award at the event. This recognition was a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation in its product line-up and forward-thinking approach to its retail network.
Tony Whitehorn expressed his gratitude for the honour, acknowledging the exceptional team and dealer partners who contributed to the success of Hyundai in the UK. He shared his optimism for the future of the automotive industry, acknowledging the challenges it faces both locally and globally, while highlighting the resilience, expertise, and passion of the people within the industry.
Throughout Tony’s leadership, Hyundai Motor UK experienced exponential growth and diversification of its vehicle line-up, which now includes a wide range of models from hatchbacks and SUVs to cutting-edge vehicles such as the i30N hot hatch, Kona Electric, and the NEXO Fuel Cell Vehicle. The company was also a trailblazer in digital sales processes with the launch of Click to Buy, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the automotive sector.
The accolades received by Tony Whitehorn and Hyundai Motor UK underscore the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation, solidifying their position as a driving force in the automotive industry. As Tony’s legacy continues under new leadership, the future looks promising for Hyundai’s continued success and growth in the UK and beyond.