24/12/2014 08:40
Today, Hyundai Motor Group has appointed Albert Biermann as its new Head of Vehicle Test & High Performance Development.
Based at the company's R&D Center in Namyang, Korea, Biermann will lead the development of new high performance Hyundai and Kia models, as well as oversee engineering projects relating to ride and handling, safety, reliability, and the mitigation of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).
His appointment will accelerate the roll-out of new high-performance vehicles and technologies, as well as help to improve the dynamic capabilities of cars across the range. The company intends to become a technical leader in ride and handling, producing vehicles that lead their respective segments for driver engagement.
Hyundai Motor's involvement in the World Rally Championship should also benefit, thanks to increased sharing of performance technologies and insights between engineering programmes for the road and rally stage.
Biermann, 57, joins Hyundai Motor Group from 1 April 2015 and brings over 30 years of experience in the development of high-performance vehicles.
He said: "I couldn't be more excited to join Hyundai Motor Group. It is a company I have watched closely as it has taken on its key competitors and quickly established a strong customer base in Europe. 2015 is an important year for the Hyundai brand with the launch of many all-new models and the start of its second season in WRC, so I am really looking forward to the challenge."
Earlier in 2014 Hyundai Motor opened its brand new European Test Centre at the N�rburgring in Germany, allowing the company to test more effectively and accurately the reliability and drivability of new vehicles.