Hyundai Motor Group appoints a new Executive Vice President

Mr. Manfred Harrer as Executive VP of the new Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit. Harrer brings 25 years of experience from Audi, BMW, Porsche, and Apple to lead their electrification efforts.

Seoul, South Korea- Hyundai Motor Company., and Kia Corporation have appointed Mr. Manfred Harrer as Executive Vice President and Head of the new Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit within their R&D Division. Harrer will lead efforts to enhance Genesis products and overall vehicle performance as the company’s transition to electrification.

Since 1997, Manfred Harrer has gained 25 years of experience in the automotive and tech industry, working on chassis development, electronic systems, software, full vehicle integration, and ADAS. He has worked with leading brands like Audi, BMW, Porsche, and Apple. Hyundai Motor and Kia expect his leadership to accelerate their transition to electrification and enhance their EV marketability.

Manfred Harrer has held senior roles at Apple, Porsche, BMW, and Audi, specializing in chassis development, ADAS, and vehicle dynamics. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bath and a Dipl.-Ing in Automotive Engineering from the University of Applied Sciences Munich.

Mr. Heui Won Yang, President of the Hyundai-Kia R&D Division, said, “The appointment of Manfred Harrer as Executive Vice President and Head of the Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit will greatly benefit Hyundai Motor Group products, enhancing the image and reputation of our mobility brands. As a world-renowned performance vehicle expert, Manfred will contribute significantly to the development of future Genesis luxury high-performance models, as well as our transition to electrification for Hyundai Motor and Kia brands.” 

Mr. EVP Harrer, said, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the trust the company has placed in me. My commitment to Hyundai Motor Group is driven by a profound belief in their visionary approach to advanced mobility solutions. With my extensive experience in the automotive and tech industry, I am dedicated to playing a pivotal role in the future evolution of Genesis and high-performance vehicles within the Group.”