Manfred Harrer appointed Genesis and Performance Development Tech Unit head

Manfred Harrer will lead Genesis and Performance Development Tech Unit under the Hyundai-Kia Research and Development Division.

Hyundai Motor Group expects Harrer’s expertise and leadership to enhance the research and development competitiveness as well as the performance attributes of Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia vehicles while supporting the group’s acceleration in the electrification era.

“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,” says Hyundai-Kia Research and Development Division president Heui Won Yang.

“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.”

Since 1997, Harrer has accumulated 25 years of experience in the automotive and tech industry, working on diverse projects including chassis development, electronic systems, software development, full vehicle integration, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

His experience includes brands such as Audi AG, BMW Group, Porsche AG, and Apple Inc.

The group anticipates Harrer’s leadership will expedite its electrification transition, securing top-tier leadership in the EV era and enhancing the marketability of Hyundai and Kia’s products.

“My commitment to Hyundai Motor Group is driven by a profound belief in their visionary approach to advanced mobility solutions,” says Harrer.

“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.”