Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has announced the appointment of Tarun Garg as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026, pending shareholder approval. This marks a historic moment as Mr Garg becomes the first Indian national to assume this role since the company’s inception 29 years ago. Currently serving as the Whole-time Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at HMIL, Mr Garg will take over from Unsoo Kim, who will return to a strategic position at Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) in South Korea after a smooth leadership transition.
This appointment underscores Hyundai’s growing confidence in India’s leadership talent and the country’s increasing significance in the global automotive sector. Over the past two years, Mr Garg has been groomed for this position, working closely with global management to prepare for the transition. Commenting on the appointment, José Muñoz, President & CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Tarun’s elevation as the first Indian national to lead HMIL is a milestone in our 30-year history. He is a visionary leader who has already demonstrated transformative leadership, guiding HMIL to record sales, profitability, and a landmark IPO. We are confident that under his leadership, the company will continue its growth trajectory.”
Unsoo Kim, the outgoing Managing Director of HMIL, expressed his full support for Mr Garg’s appointment, stating, “Having worked closely with Tarun, I have witnessed his dedication and forward-thinking approach, which have been key to HMIL’s success. I am confident that under his leadership, HMIL will achieve even greater milestones.”
In his new role, Mr Garg’s strategic priorities will focus on four key pillars: building a future-focused strategy, prioritizing both market and people, enhancing customer orientation, and driving the “Make in India” initiative. These pillars will guide HMIL in solidifying its position as a leader in the Indian market and establishing India as a global export hub for automotive manufacturing.
Mr Garg’s leadership has already had a significant impact at HMIL. With more than 32 years of experience in the industry, he led the company to record sales for three consecutive years, delivered the highest-ever profits, and played a pivotal role in HMIL’s successful IPO in 2024, which became the largest in India’s equity market history. His focus on profitability, sustainability, and customer experience has also positioned HMIL as a leader in the SUV segment, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation.
Beyond business achievements, Mr Garg is known for his people-first leadership style, which is rooted in inclusivity and community development. He spearheaded the “Samarth by Hyundai” initiative to support people with disabilities, further aligning with Hyundai Motor Group’s global vision of “Progress for Humanity,” which emphasizes the importance of human-centered growth.
Mr Garg’s leadership journey at Hyundai began in 2019 as the Head of Sales, Service, and Marketing, where he took charge of the company’s core customer-facing operations. His exceptional performance led to his appointment as COO in 2023, where he expanded his oversight to the company’s entire operational functions. Before joining Hyundai, Mr Garg had a successful career with Maruti Suzuki India Limited, where he held various senior roles, including Executive Director of Marketing, Logistics, Parts, and Accessories.
A graduate in Mechanical Engineering from Delhi Technological University (DTU) and holding an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow, Mr Garg combines a strong academic background with extensive industry experience, positioning him to lead Hyundai Motor India into its next phase of growth.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is a prominent subsidiary of the South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Company, established in 1996. As a major player in India’s automotive sector, Hyundai Motor India has consistently contributed to the growth of the Indian automobile market with innovative technology and a diverse product range, including hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs.
HMIL’s manufacturing facility, located in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, is known for its high production capacity and advanced technology, supporting both domestic demand and exports to over 90 countries. Hyundai Motor India is also committed to sustainable mobility and has introduced electric vehicles in India, aligning with global trends in EV adoption and contributing to environmental conservation. The company emphasizes quality, customer satisfaction, and after-sales service, making it one of India’s most trusted automobile brands.
