Hyundai Exter Makes Its Global Debut: India Ships 996 Units to South Africa as Part of Export Expansion
In a significant milestone for Hyundai Motor India , the company has begun exporting its latest entry-level SUV, the Hyundai Exter , to South Africa. As part of the initial batch, 996 units of the Exter were dispatched, marking the beginning of what Hyundai expects to be a successful journey for the model in the South African market. This achievement is part of Hyundai India’s larger export strategy, which celebrates 20 years of sending world-class vehicles to South Africa from its manufacturing hub in Tamil Nadu.
Hyundai's relationship with South Africa spans two decades, with the automaker consistently delivering a wide range of models to the country. This latest shipment of the Exter marks the continuation of a strong partnership. Speaking about this milestone, Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head of Corporate Planning at Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) , highlighted the significance of the South African market for the company’s global export operations.
" South Africa has always been an important export market for HMIL ," he noted. Ryu emphasized that most of the models manufactured at Hyundai’s Indian facility are exported to South Africa, showcasing Hyundai's focus on ensuring that South African customers have access to high-quality vehicles built in India.
He further stated, “ 2024 is a milestone year for HMIL as it marks 20 years of exporting world-class products to South Africa. ‘Made in India, Made for the World’ is a testament to HMIL’s manufacturing prowess, as it is evident that our products are not only loved by the Indian audience but garner appreciation from customers the world over. I am confident that the Hyundai Exter would be highly appreciated in South Africa, replicating its success story and tremendous popularity in India.”
The Hyundai Exter is Hyundai India’s newest offering in the sub-four-metre SUV segment. Its introduction to the South African market comes at an opportune moment, as the Exter has been a major success in India. Having recently crossed the one lakh unit sales milestone in the domestic market, the Exter has already proven its mettle as a favorite among Indian buyers, particularly for those seeking a compact yet capable SUV.
The Exter is positioned as an entry-level SUV, but its combination of modern design, safety features, and advanced technology has made it an attractive option for both first-time car buyers and those looking for an affordable yet premium compact SUV. Its export to South Africa is expected to replicate the same level of success, thanks to its appeal to customers who prioritize style, performance, and value for money.
In addition to the Exter, Hyundai Motor India exports seven other models to South Africa, highlighting the diversity of its offerings. These models include:
Grand i10 Nios
Aura
i20
i20 N Line
Venue
Venue N Line
Alcazar
These vehicles are part of Hyundai’s strategy to cater to a broad customer base in South Africa, offering a mix of hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs that suit various needs and preferences. Each of these models has been well-received in both India and global markets, further solidifying Hyundai’s reputation as a global automotive leader.
The export of the Exter adds another feather to Hyundai’s cap, reinforcing its commitment to manufacturing vehicles that meet global standards. As Hyundai continues to innovate and expand its portfolio, the company’s ability to adapt to different markets and customer preferences ensures that it remains a competitive force in the international automotive landscape.
Hyundai’s philosophy of ‘Made in India, Made for the World’ has been a driving force behind its export success. The company’s manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu has become a major hub for producing vehicles not only for the Indian market but for global consumers as well. With a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and innovation, the vehicles rolling off Hyundai’s production lines in India have earned a reputation for excellence across various markets.
This focus on global exports is part of Hyundai’s broader strategy to position India as a key player in its international operations. The company’s ability to deliver world-class products at competitive prices has been a key factor in its success in markets like South Africa.
The Exter’s entry into South Africa marks a significant step in Hyundai’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the global automotive market. With its compact dimensions, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Exter is expected to appeal to a wide range of customers in South Africa, especially those looking for an affordable yet feature-rich SUV.
Given the model's popularity in India, Hyundai is optimistic about its prospects in South Africa. The Exter's success story in India—where it quickly became one of the most sought-after compact SUVs—could very well be replicated in South Africa, a market that has traditionally welcomed Hyundai's offerings with open arms.
As Hyundai celebrates 20 years of exporting to South Africa , the shipment of the Exter marks a new chapter in the company’s journey. With nearly 1,000 units of the Exter already on their way to South Africa, Hyundai India is poised to continue its legacy of delivering high-quality, reliable, and innovative vehicles to international markets.
For South African consumers, the arrival of the Exter represents an exciting new option in the compact SUV space, one that promises Hyundai's signature blend of style, performance, and value. As the Exter takes its place alongside Hyundai's other models in South Africa, the brand's export portfolio continues to grow, solidifying its position as a global automotive powerhouse.
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