Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song honored at 2025 Autocar Awards

President and CEO Ho Sung Song has been awarded with Autocar’s highest accolade, the Issigonis Trophy, in recognition of his significant contributions to the global automotive industry. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry through their innovative ideas, leadership, and dedication.

Ho Sung Song has been at the helm of the Hyundai Motor Group since 2018 and has been instrumental in driving the company’s success and growth. Under his leadership, the group has achieved remarkable milestones and has become one of the leading automotive companies in the world.

The Issigonis Trophy is named after the legendary automotive designer, Sir Alec Issigonis, who is best known for his iconic design of the Mini. It is awarded annually by Autocar, one of the most respected and influential automotive publications in the world. The award recognizes individuals who have not only achieved success in their respective companies but have also contributed to the overall advancement of the automotive industry.

Ho Sung Song’s journey in the automotive industry began in 1985 when he joined Hyundai Motor Company as a researcher. Over the years, he has held various positions within the company, including President and CEO of Kia Motors Corporation and President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. His extensive knowledge and experience in the industry have been crucial in driving the company’s growth and success.

Under Ho Sung Song’s leadership, the Hyundai Motor Group has been at the forefront of innovation and technology. The group has been investing heavily in research and development to develop eco-friendly and advanced vehicles. In 2020, the group announced its plan to invest 41 trillion won (approximately $35 billion) in future mobility technologies by 2025. This includes the development of electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, as well as autonomous driving technology.

In addition to his contributions to the automotive industry, Ho Sung Song has also been actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives. He has been a strong advocate for corporate social responsibility and has led the Hyundai Motor Group’s efforts in giving back to the community. The group has been involved in various social and environmental initiatives, including the Hyundai Hope On Wheels program, which supports pediatric cancer research.

The Issigonis Trophy is a testament to Ho Sung Song’s exceptional leadership and vision. His dedication and passion for the automotive industry have been recognized not only by Autocar but also by his peers and colleagues. In a statement, the President of Autocar, Mark Tisshaw, praised Ho Sung Song for his outstanding contributions and stated, “His leadership and vision have been crucial in driving the Hyundai Motor Group to new heights, and we are delighted to honor him with the Issigonis Trophy.”

Upon receiving the award, Ho Sung Song expressed his gratitude and stated, “I am deeply honored to receive the Issigonis Trophy from Autocar. This award is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of all the employees at the Hyundai Motor Group. It motivates us to continue our efforts in shaping the future of the automotive industry.”

The Issigonis Trophy is a well-deserved recognition for Ho Sung Song’s contributions to the automotive industry. His leadership and vision have not only driven the success of the Hyundai Motor Group but have also inspired others in the industry to strive for excellence. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we can expect Ho Sung Song to continue leading the way with his innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to excellence.

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