Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) on Thursday announced that Tarun Garg has formally assumed office as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO), effective January 1, 2026.
The appointment marks a watershed moment in the company’s history, as Tarun becomes the first Indian national to lead Hyundai Motor India since its establishment 29 years ago. HMIL is the Indian subsidiary of South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Company.
He succeeds Unsoo Kim, who will return to South Korea to take on a strategic role within Hyundai Motor Company.
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Describing the transition as emblematic of India’s rising stature, HMIL said the move reflects Hyundai Motor Group’s strong confidence in Indian leadership and the country’s expanding strategic significance in the global automotive arena. The leadership change, the company added, ushers in a new chapter defined by innovation, resilience and sustained progress.
Under Tarun’s stewardship, HMIL’s future-ready strategy will be anchored on four core pillars: a people- and market-focused approach, deepened customer centricity, and a renewed thrust on the ‘Make in India, Made for the World’ vision.
Highlighting his credentials, the company said, “With over three decades of automotive experience, Tarun brings in the right expertise to lead HMIL’s second phase of growth in India.”
Commenting on his appointment, he said, “My vision is to build on our strong foundation while accelerating HMIL’s transformation towards sustainable growth, technological leadership, and unmatched customer delight.”
He further said, “Aligned with Hyundai’s global vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, we will strengthen Hyundai’s legacy and create meaningful mobility solutions that not only empower people but also connect communities and enrich lives.”
The HMIL board had approved Garg’s elevation in October last year as part of a structured succession plan. Prior to this role, he served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer.
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