SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Group's executive vice president for design and chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke has been named 2022 World Car Person of the Year by the World Car Awards jury panel.
The accolade recognises automotive industry professionals who have made a significant impact with their contributions in the year leading up to the award.
The World Car Awards jury members representing 102 journalists from 33 countries cited Donckerwolke’s role overseeing innovative new models, including Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60, as the principal reason for honouring him this year.
They also heralded the resto-mod Pony and Grandeur models that paid homage to Korea’s often overlooked automotive heritage.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Person of the Year award and would like to thank all of the jury members and the valued team at Hyundai Motor Group, without whom this would not have been possible,” Donckerwolke said.
“I have worked for many companies and brands over my career and I’m delighted at the recognition the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands have received. They are a true reflection of the effort of all of the Group employees, retailers and partners who have worked steadfastly to develop a strong lineup of compelling and relevant vehicles on sale in over 200 countries worldwide,” he added.
The World Car jury also recognised Hyundai, Kia and Genesis models in various award categories. IONIQ 5 and EV6 made the top five in 2022 World Car Design.
GV70 made the top five in 2022 World Luxury Car. IONIQ 5 also made the top five in 2022 World EV of the Year. IONIQ 5, EV6, Genesis G70 and Hyundai Tucson all made the top 10 in 2022 World Car of the Year, giving the group more recognition than any other automaker on the list.
The World Car Person of the Year award is part of the annual World Car Awards, which officially launched in January 2004. The award aims to recognise, reward and inspire excellence, leadership and innovation in the automotive industry. Past winners have included Akio Toyoda (2021), Carlos Tavares (2020), Sergio Marchionne (2019) and Håkan Samuelsson (2018).
