800V ultra-fast charging technology among highlights cited by judges

An exterior view of the Hyundai Motor and Kia headquarters in Yangjae, Seoul [Hyundai Motor Group]
An exterior view of the Hyundai Motor and Kia headquarters in Yangjae, Seoul [Hyundai Motor Group]

Hyundai Motor Group has been named "Automotive Company of the Year" at the AutoTech Awards 2026, a U.S. automotive and mobility industry ceremony.

The group announced Thursday that it received the honor at the awards ceremony held Tuesday (local time) at the Vibrant Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan.

The AutoTech Awards, organized by global ICT research firm Informa, recognize innovative technologies and companies in the automotive and mobility sectors, covering areas including AI, connectivity, software, safety and the connected-car ecosystem.

The judging panel cited four factors in selecting Hyundai Motor Group: three consecutive World Car of the Year wins, operation of a dedicated electric vehicle platform, development of an 800V ultra-fast charging system, and a track record of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) ratings along with multiple design awards.

Hyundai Motor America (HMA) had previously won the "Automaker of the Year" award in 2021 and 2024, but this marks the first time the group as a whole has received the honor. Notably, the award category was renamed this year from "Automaker of the Year" to "Automotive Company of the Year," and Hyundai Motor Group became its first recipient under the new title.

A Hyundai Motor Group spokesperson said the company plans to continue strengthening the performance, safety and design competitiveness of its electric vehicle platforms while accelerating its software-defined vehicle (SDV) strategy and expanding connected mobility capabilities in global markets.

Meanwhile, the AutoTech Awards 2026 was held alongside the "2026 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX" ceremony organized by U.S. automotive publication WardsAuto.

Earlier in May, Hyundai Motor Group also made a strong showing at the "2026 Best Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Awards" announced by U.S. News & World Report, sweeping seven of 19 categories.

Among the winners, the Genesis GV60 — which appeared in the "Best Luxury Subcompact Electric SUV" category for the first time — was praised for its 84.0 kWh large-capacity battery and ultra-fast charging via its 800V system, which can charge from 10 to 80 percent in 18 to 20 minutes.


eyre@heraldcorp.com