Nearly a century after its original debut, Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled a stunning recreation of the Pony Coupe Concept at the inaugural Hyundai Reunion event in Lake Como, Italy. First introduced at the 1974 Turin Motor Show, the Pony Coupe Concept played a pivotal role in shaping Hyundai’s design heritage and history.
The Hyundai Reunion serves as a platform to reflect on Hyundai’s storied past and its future direction Among the attendees were Giorgetto Giugiaro and his son Fabrizio Giugiaro, who played a significant role in the vehicle’s restoration process through their style center, GFG Style. The event commemorated the rebirth of the Pony Coupe Concept, which laid the foundation for Korea’s first independently developed mass-production vehicle line.
The restoration project aimed to revive the original Pony Coupe Concept showcased at the 1974 Turin Motor Show. This ambitious endeavor highlights the passion, drive, and determination of Hyundai’s employees and executives in creating a global brand, with the Pony Coupe Concept at its core.
Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, expressed gratitude to those who played a crucial role in the success. He recalled his grandfather and Hyundai’s Founding Chairman Ju-young Chung’s dedication to rebuilding Korea’s economy and developing the nation’s automotive industry, despite challenging circumstances in the 1970s.
While the Pony Coupe Concept never reached commercial production due to unfavorable economic conditions, its groundbreaking design and bold spirit continue to inspire Hyundai’s leadership in electrification and high-performance hydrogen technology. Recent models, such as the N Vision 74 hydrogen-hybrid electric ‘Rolling Lab’ and the ’45’ EV concept car, draw on the Pony Coupe Concept’s retro-futuristic aesthetic.
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The Pony Coupe Concept features a striking origami-like exterior, a sleek roofline, dynamic proportions, and a uniquely shaped B-pillar. The minimalist interior emphasizes a monocoque design and driver-centered floating architecture, with a single-spoke steering wheel and two-toned slim-line bucket seats.
The restoration of the Pony Coupe Concept serves as a significant milestone in Hyundai’s history, representing the company’s beginnings and its unwavering dedication to future innovation. Luc Donckerwolke, President and Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, described the restored vehicle as a “legacy for generations to come.”
The Hyundai Reunion event not only celebrated the rebirth of the Pony Coupe Concept but also marked the launch of a new brand platform that highlights Hyundai’s heritage. Through this platform, Hyundai aims to demonstrate how its past successes continue to influence its daring attitude today.
As part of its global heritage project, Hyundai plans to further expand the Hyundai Reunion brand platform to spread its brand vision and direction worldwide, ensuring that its innovative spirit continues to thrive in the automotive industry for generations to come.
The Pony Coupe Concept is a vital piece in Hyundai’s history, as it represented the company’s ambition and determination to enter the global automotive market. It showcased Hyundai’s innovative design capabilities and marked the beginning of Korea’s automotive industry. The restoration of this iconic vehicle serves as a reminder of Hyundai’s humble beginnings and its unw to innovation, design, and customer satisfaction.
The restoration of the Pony Coupe Concept was a collaborative effort between Hyundai and GFG Style, bringing together the creative expertise of Fabrizio and Giorgetto Giugiaro. This partnership ensured that the restored vehicle maintained its original design elements while incorporating modern technology and materials. The meticulous restoration process involved sourcing original parts, refurbishing the vehicle’s bodywork, and reviving the car’s unique design features.
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The Pony Coupe Concept’s influence on Hyundai’s design philosophy is evident in its modern lineup of vehicles. The concept’s retro-futuristic aesthetic, characterized by sleek lines, dynamic proportions, and minimalist interiors, has been incorporated into recent models such as the IONIQ 5 all-electric vehicle and the N Vision 74 hydrogen-hybrid electric development vehicle. These vehicles showcase Hyundai’s continued commitment to innovation and its pursuit of sustainable mobility solutions.
Source: Hyundai Motor Group
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