Kia's acclaimed design chief Peter Schreyer has been given a broadened role as head of design for both Hyundai and Kia.
Schreyer's new role is described as giving the group "long-term vision for design and to enforce design differentiation", and is officially being hailed as an opportunity to "streamline resources and create synergy between the two brands".
Woong-Chul Yang, vice chairman of Hyundai's R&D centre in Korea said: "Strengthening our fundamentals, especially in the area of design, is imperative to secure long-term competitiveness. Design is not just the most visible aspect of the car, but it’s an area customers have a strong emotional connection to. It is at the centre of our efforts to enhance our brand value."
Schreyer, a former head of design at Audi and Volkswagen, was promoted to the position of president at Kia late last year, and his latest promotion comes in the wake of Hyundai-Kia announcing a brand goal of 'innovation based on quality' last week.
With Hyundai pushing to become recognised as a more aspirational, upmarket brand, as well as developing sporty themes through its motorsport involvement, Schreyer is widely tipped to be given a far-reaching brief to overhaul the brand's design philosophies.
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fadyady
Remarkable or what?
Peter Schreyer has done well for himself and his charge. So much so that the Kia / Hyundai group has run out of capacity to meet the increasing global demand at a time when rivals are shutting down factories and cutting staff.
The Korean marques have been forced to moderate their growth targets for 2013 wherein a modest growth should see them pass the 7 million cars a year mark. That's more than twice the sales of Honda and Suzuki's put together.
Flash Harry
Well done Mr
Well done Mr Schreyer.Hyundai/Kia are still moving forward and it
seems some competitors will decline even more, never mind catch up.
The Apprentice
Yes good for him! I suspect
Yes good for him! I suspect he has been enjoying himself, compared to the photocopier on different zoom setting ethos for Audi or the ultra conservative VW remit, he has been allowed a lot more freedom and flair at Kia with, bar a small bit of family grill shape to include, distinct and individual vehicles being produced.
Also with Kia's aggressive development and launch schedules and I bet its never a dull moment which creative people thrive in. Its paid off for both parties with the cars now doing so well.
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