GM and Hyundai Partnership Could Bring Korean Vans to America
The possibility of GM selling Korean vans with American badges has gained traction following recent developments in the Hyundai-GM partnership. The Hyundai Staria, a stylish commercial van with a passenger variant, is among the models that could make it to the U.S. market.
The initial announcement of the Hyundai-GM deal in September was light on specifics, but it included plans to co-develop and co-produce vehicles, including electric vehicles and commercial vans. Hyundai’s CFO, Lee Seung Jo, recently revealed that the company is considering re-badging its commercial EVs for GM. This move could pave the way for Hyundai’s entry into the North American commercial vehicle market.
The Hyundai Staria and the upcoming Kia PBV series of electric vans are prime candidates for the U.S. market. The Kia PV5 is reportedly on track for U.S. sales later this year or early next year, pending favorable trade conditions. A partnership with GM could enhance the U.S. content of these vehicles, making them more viable in the American market.
For GM, adding the Hyundai Staria and Kia PBV vehicles to its lineup could complement the BrightDrop vans and potentially replace older models like the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana. These Korean vans offer modern designs and electric powertrains, which could appeal to the U.S. market.
The partnership between GM and Hyundai has the potential to reshape the commercial van segment in America, bringing in newer, more efficient, and stylish vehicles.
