The CEO of Hyundai Motor Co. expressed confidence in overcoming uncertainties related to President Donald Trump's stance on electric vehicles and local production. He emphasized the company's strategy to localize operations in the US to counter any potential policy changes. At the annual general meeting in Seoul, CEO Jose Munoz defended Hyundai's significant investment in the US, including the impending opening of a large factory in Georgia to produce EVs like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9. This venture involves partnerships with SK On Co. and LG Energy Solution Ltd., with a total investment of about $12.6 billion. Munoz, the first foreign CEO of the automaker, addressed Korean shareholders at his inaugural meeting.

Despite recent tariff exemptions for vehicles manufactured in Mexico and Canada, there is still uncertainty regarding potential tariffs in the future. The US is a crucial market for Hyundai, where the company achieved record sales of 912,000 vehicles and a 5.7% market share last year. In response to environmental regulations in Europe, Hyundai plans to introduce new EV models like the Casper and Ioniq 9, as well as compliant engines. A production base is also being established in Saudi Arabia. While facing challenges in China with a market share of less than 1%, Hyundai aims to introduce new EVs tailored to Chinese consumers in the coming years.