Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun and Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman Akio Toyoda reunited during the final match of the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) held at Toyota Stadium, Japan, on November 24. This marks their second meeting in a month, following the Hyundai N x Toyota GR Festival held in Yongin, South Korea, on October 27.
A Shared Passion for Motorsports
Chairman Toyoda acknowledged the significance of their ongoing interactions, stating, “Chairman Chung visited the WRC Japan rally. Continuous and active exchanges between Korea and Japan, as well as between Hyundai and Toyota, are very beneficial for both parties.”
During their meeting, the two leaders explored the Toyota GR Racing Team Service Park, observing preparations for the WRC event. Both expressed a commitment to fostering excellence in motorsports.
“Hyundai Motor has a high-performance brand called N, and Toyota has GR,” said Chairman Toyoda. “Through motorsports, I hope we can create exceptional cars that people aspire to own, competing and innovating together.”
Friendly Competition with a Vision for Cooperation
While Chairman Toyoda emphasized the value of competition, he also highlighted areas where collaboration is essential, particularly in mobility technologies such as hydrogen and robotics.
“Competition is important. It’s healthy and exciting for fans,” he remarked. “But when it comes to infrastructure and future-oriented technologies like hydrogen, cooperation is necessary.”
Chairman Toyoda also mentioned Toyota’s initiatives, such as operating hydrogen race cars in endurance events. He expressed hope that hydrogen fuel would gain a reputation as a clean, sustainable energy source, distancing itself from concerns about safety risks like explosions.
A Fierce Rivalry in the WRC Championship
This year, Hyundai and Toyota have fiercely contested the championship titles in the three major motor sports competitions of the WRC, organized by the International Federation of Motor Vehicles (FIA).
At the 2024 WRC Japan rally, Hyundai secured its first-ever championship in the driver category. However, Toyota reclaimed victory in the manufacturer’s division, preventing Hyundai from achieving an integrated win. The rivalry between the two automotive giants has energized fans and underscored the competitive spirit of the sport.
A Bright Future for Hyundai and Toyota
As the two companies continue to innovate and compete, their leaders’ commitment to maintaining friendly relations and exploring joint opportunities demonstrates the potential for a harmonious blend of rivalry and collaboration. From motorsports to mobility solutions, the future of Hyundai and Toyota promises exciting developments for both the automotive industry and global consumers.
