Hyundai is a South Korean multinational conglomerate that has become a global automotive industry leader. The company was founded in 1967 by Chung Ju-Yung, who began with a construction firm that he expanded into other sectors, including shipbuilding and automobiles. Hyundai Motor Company, the automotive division of Hyundai, was established in 1968 and began producing its first model, the Cortina, in collaboration with Ford.

In the early years, Hyundai faced many challenges and obstacles in establishing itself as a legitimate automaker. The company struggled with quality control and reliability issues, which damaged its reputation in the global market. However, Hyundai persisted and made significant strides in improving the quality of its vehicles.

In the 1980s, Hyundai began to invest heavily in research and development, which led to the production of its first independently designed and developed car, the Excel, in 1985. The Excel was a huge success, selling over one million units in its first year and establishing Hyundai as a major player in the automotive industry.

Over the next decade, Hyundai continued to innovate and expand its product line. The company introduced new models such as the Sonata, Elantra, and Santa Fe, which were well-received by consumers and helped solidify Hyundai's reputation for quality and reliability.

In the early 2000s, Hyundai took on a new challenge: the luxury car market. The company launched its first luxury sedan, the Hyundai Genesis, in 2008. The Genesis was well-received and helped establish Hyundai as a viable competitor to luxury brands like Lexus and BMW.

Today, Hyundai is one of the largest automakers in the world, with a global presence in over 190 countries. The company continues to innovate and push boundaries in the automotive industry, with a focus on electric and autonomous vehicles. In 2021, Hyundai announced that it would invest $7.4 billion in the development of electric vehicles and related technologies, signalling its commitment to a sustainable future.

Overall, the history of Hyundai automobiles is a story of perseverance and innovation. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Hyundai has emerged as a major player in the global automotive industry, with a reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. The company's commitment to sustainability and the development of new technologies suggests that it will continue to be a leader in the industry for years to come.