Hyundai India, which is the second largest automobile maker in the country, is preparing to launch its first hybrid car in 2026. Like, a Reuters report says that India’s Hyundai will be introducing a hybrid SUV, having the same estimated size as its midsize Creta SUV. The Hyundai Motor Group wants to realize the sale of its SUVs coupled with hybrids by 2026 or 2027, together with e-mobility planning for the Indian market.

In an interview with Reuters, Hyundai Motor Group's statement declared the intention of establishing an environment where electric mobility will rule. Accordingly, they said they would formulate the strategies of their products under the requirements of each market. The decision to venture into hybrids comes as Hyundai observes a surge in hybrid vehicle sales in India, which ranks as its third-largest revenue-generating market after the United States and South Korea. This shift prompted the carmaker to deviate from its initial focus solely on battery-driven electric vehicles.

While Hyundai and Kia currently offer petrol and diesel cars in India, they import EVs like the IONIQ 5 and EV6. However, they are now working towards introducing their first domestically manufactured EVs in India by 2025. An insider revealed, "Until EV sales gain momentum, Hyundai aims to tap into India's hybrid market. It has initiated efforts to adapt hybrid technology for Indian cars to make it more mainstream."

The introduction of hybrid cars will enable Hyundai to better compete with Maruti Suzuki, which sells hybrid models through its collaboration with Toyota and plans more budget-friendly launches with technology sourced from its parent company, Suzuki Motor. In addition to its hybrid endeavours, Hyundai is ramping up its presence in India with plans for a $3 billion IPO following its scale-back of production in China and divestment of its two Russian plants.

Meanwhile, Hyundai is preparing to unveil its first locally produced electric vehicle based on the Creta platform within the next year. Furthermore, a mass-market EV is on the horizon, slated for launch between 2026 and 2027.

In a bid to enhance affordability and localize production, the South Korean auto group has partnered with Indian battery manufacturer Exide Industries to manufacture battery cells domestically.

Hyundai's foray into hybrid technology signals a strategic shift towards offering a diverse range of eco-friendly vehicles, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the Indian automotive market. With its ambitious plans for hybrid and electric mobility, Hyundai aims to carve a significant niche for itself in India's rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

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