GM and Hyundai Forge Partnership to Share Vehicles
General Motors (GM) and Hyundai are reportedly finalizing a collaborative agreement that will see the two automotive giants share vehicle platforms, according to a source familiar with the discussions, as reported by Reuters. This partnership promises significant implications for both companies as they navigate the evolving automotive market.
The deal focuses on several key vehicle segments. Hyundai is slated to share two electric commercial vans with GM. In return, GM will supply Hyundai with pickup trucks, which Hyundai plans to sell under its own brand in North America. This strategic exchange aims to leverage the strengths of each company, expanding their respective product offerings and market reach.
Discussions surrounding the pickup trucks have centered on GM’s mid-size models, specifically the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Hyundai is also reportedly interested in a full-size truck, though that is not currently on the table.
The collaboration could extend beyond these initial exchanges, with further possibilities for joint development projects, including shared purchases of computer chips and battery development efforts. This sharing approach is increasingly common in the industry as manufacturers seek to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness, especially in the face of growing competition from China and uncertainties in North America.
Under the agreement, Hyundai would produce the electric vans and import them from South Korea. These vans would be sold under both the Hyundai and GM banners. For the pickup trucks, Hyundai is considering assembly in North America, potentially at a new or existing facility, starting in 2028.
The plan includes two different sizes of vans. The smaller van is slated for assembly at Hyundai’s Ulsan plant beginning in the summer of 2027, with a larger van to follow in 2028. By sharing these electric vans, GM can enhance its commercial vehicle lineup to better compete with rivals such as Ford and Ram, which already offer electric options, without the need for major independent investments.
For Hyundai, the advantage is clear: the addition of a mid-size pickup truck would give the company a strong offering in the competitive North American market, providing an alternative to established models like the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma.
Both companies have acknowledged the ongoing discussions, with GM stating that they “continue to explore potential areas of collaboration,” while Hyundai issued a similar statement.
This partnership represents a strategic move for both GM and Hyundai, positioning them favorably in the dynamic automotive landscape.
