Historic Leadership Transition at HMIL
Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) announced that Tarun Garg has officially assumed charge as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026, marking the first time an Indian national has led the company since its inception nearly 30 years ago. The change reflects Hyundai Motor Group’s confidence in India’s strategic importance within its global operations.
Succession and Strategic Leadership
Garg succeeds Unsoo Kim, who is returning to a strategic role at the South Korean parent, Hyundai Motor Company (HMC). HMIL highlighted that the leadership transition is part of a planned succession, intended to guide the company through its next growth phase in India’s rapidly evolving automotive market.
Executive Experience and Industry Background
Garg brings over three decades of automotive industry experience, including senior leadership positions within HMIL. Before his appointment as MD & CEO, he served as Whole-time Director and Chief Operating Officer, and earlier as Head of Sales, Service and Marketing. During his tenure in these roles, the company recorded three consecutive years of record sales, achieved its highest profitability and EBITDA margins and completed one of India’s largest automotive IPOs. Before joining Hyundai, Garg held leadership roles at Maruti Suzuki India Limited, including as Executive Director overseeing marketing, logistics and parts and accessories.
Strategic Vision for Growth
Hyundai Motor India said Garg’s leadership will focus on four strategic pillars, including people and market orientation, customer centricity, technological innovation and strengthening its “Make in India, Made for the World” agenda. The company has outlined a substantial investment roadmap of ₹45,000 crore through FY2030 to accelerate electric vehicles, hybrids and connected mobility solutions as part of its future-ready strategy.
Market Context
HMIL is the Indian arm of the South Korean automaker and is among the leading car manufacturers in the country. The appointment of an Indian MD & CEO is a significant milestone in its 29-year presence in India and underscores the market’s growing role in global automotive growth and leadership.
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