South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group has just hired an ex-Porsche and Apple executive to lead the product development of its luxury brand Genesis and high-performance brand N series, according to the press release. In addition, the tech expert will also help enhance the performance of Hyundai and Kia vehicles
Harrer’s expertise expected to bolster R&D and performance
On Tuesday, Hyundai Hyundai Motor Group formally announced the appointment of Manfred Harrer as Executive Vice President and Head of the newly launched Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit under the Hyundai-Kia Research & Development Division.
The tech veteran’s remarkable expertise and knowledge from major companies like Porsche, Apple, BMW, and Audi can significantly advance the South Korean automaker’s R&D muscle and accelerate Genesis’ EV development.
In addition, Harrer is also expected to improve the overall performance of electric vehicles from both Hyundai and Kia.
For context, Harrer led the development of Porsche’s classic luxury crossover SUV Cayenne and the inaugural EV model Taycan.
These considered, Hyundai’s move to appoint Harrer will aid its efforts to accelerate the electric vehicle transition with “top-tier” leadership.
“The appointment of Manfred Harrer as Executive Vice President and Head of the Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit will greatly benefit Hyundai Motor Group products, enhancing the image and reputation of our mobility brands. As a world-renowned performance vehicle expert, Manfred will contribute significantly to the development of future Genesis luxury high-performance models, as well as our transition to electrification for Hyundai Motor and Kia brands.”
Heui Won Yang, President of the Hyundai-Kia R&D Division
Vying for Apple Car project’s talents
As mentioned, Manfred Harrer was Apple’s Product Design Engineering Senior Director for three years. The tech giant poached Harrer from sports car maker Porsche for the development of its “secret” electric Apple Car project.
However, Apple ditched the EV development dubbed “Titan” after over ten years in February.
Now, Harrer will help accelerate the electric vehicle development of South Korean automakers’ brands, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. He is also apparently expected to spearhead the newly launched Magma brand, “the brand’s extension into the realm of high-performance vehicles.” Moreover, he will also help Hyundai’s N performance unit develop high-performance EV models.
“With my extensive experience in the automotive and tech industry, I am dedicated to playing a pivotal role in the future evolution of Genesis and high-performance vehicles within the Group.”
Manfred Harrer, Executive Vice President and Head of Genesis & Performance Development Tech Unit
Interestingly, the Korean Economic Daily claims that Hyundai is planning to hire about ten ex-Apple Car engineers.
Hyundai’s commitment to EVs
Hyundai’s strong dedication to advancing in the electric vehicle industry is gradually paying off. In the first quarter of the year, its EV sales grew by a whopping 62%.
Both the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kona Electric hit new sales records in the US in the same period.
It is also worth noting that in 2024, Hyundai had six of the top ten most fuel-efficient electric vehicles (by trim) in the US market.
With Manfred Harrer’s guidance, Hyundai is set to achieve new heights in the electric vehicle space in the coming years.
