Why is Hyundai's Advanced Vehicle Chief Resigning?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Hyundai's Advanced Vehicle Chief, Song Chang-hyeon, has announced his resignation amidst concerns over the slow progress in autonomous vehicle technology. As the automotive industry rapidly evolves, this development raises questions about the future direction of Hyundai Motor Group in the competitive landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Song Chang-hyeon resigns amid progress concerns.
- Hyundai is investing heavily in autonomous vehicle technologies.
- Competitors like Tesla and Mercedes-Benz lead in autonomous driving.
- Hyundai plans to introduce Level 2+ self-driving features by 2027.
- Executive reshuffles are anticipated in the coming weeks.
Seoul, December 4 (NationPress) Song Chang-hyeon, the leader of Hyundai Motor Group's Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) division and the CEO of the group's software research entity 42dot, has announced his resignation due to insufficient advancements in next-generation automotive technologies, as reported by industry insiders on Thursday.
In a communication addressed to 42dot staff, Song indicated that he would relinquish both roles following discussions with Hyundai Motor Group's Executive Chair Euisun Chung, according to sources, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
Song seemingly accepts accountability for the group's modest progress in autonomous driving technologies, as Hyundai Motor Group has been perceived as not meeting expectations when compared to competitors, despite considerable investments in the AVP division.
"We have been getting ready for the future automotive market, where only software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and autonomous driving technologies will prevail, after global automakers have invested tens of trillions of won only to fall short," Song stated in his message.
Currently, Hyundai Motor Group seems to be trailing behind competitors like Tesla Inc., which has been solidifying its position in South Korea by implementing its supervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. Other international manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz and BMW, have already integrated Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities into their production vehicles.
The group targets to implement Level 2+ self-driving functionalities in its vehicles by 2027.
Incorporating software DNA into a predominantly hardware-driven industry and striving to create an AI-powered device instead of a conventional car has proven to be a daunting challenge, he added.
Song, who was previously the chief technology officer of Naver Corp. in 2015, departed the company in January 2019 to establish the mobility AI startup 42dot. After the acquisition by Hyundai Motor Group in 2022, he led the group’s SDV division before assuming leadership of the AVP unit early last year.
The group is anticipated to revamp its leadership in future mobility technologies through imminent executive reshuffles expected in the coming weeks.
Point of View
It's important to note that while Song Chang-hyeon's resignation indicates challenges within Hyundai's autonomous vehicle initiatives, it also reflects the broader struggles faced by many automakers in adapting to rapidly changing technologies. The automotive sector is undergoing a significant transformation, and leadership changes like this can both signal urgency and open up new opportunities for innovation.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Song Chang-hyeon resign?
Song Chang-hyeon resigned due to a lack of progress in next-generation vehicle technologies, particularly in autonomous driving.
What is Hyundai's goal regarding autonomous vehicles?
Hyundai aims to implement Level 2+ self-driving features in its vehicles by 2027.
Who will lead Hyundai's Advanced Vehicle Platform now?
The details regarding the new leadership for Hyundai's Advanced Vehicle Platform have yet to be announced following the resignation.
