Hyundai Motor America sold its first vehicle in the U.S. 40 years ago  – a Hyundai Excel on Feb. 19, 1986. Since then, the company has grown from 161 dealerships here to more than 855, the company said. It sold over 900,000 vehicles in 2025 alone, despite U.S. trade tariffs.

“Forty years ago, Hyundai came to the U.S. to be part of the American dream,” said Hyundai President and CEO José Muñoz. “In America's 250th year, we’re proud to be helping so many families realize their American Dream.”

According to Muñoz, the company supports 570,000 jobs in the U.S. with a planned investment of $26 billion between 2025 and 2028. The anniversary comes at an opportune time to underline such statistics, as the Trump administration cited increased domestic manufacturing as a key reason for its tariff hikes.

“Our commitment to America runs deeper than ever, through billions invested in manufacturing, cutting-edge research and design centers, and the thousands of dedicated employees and dealer partners who believe in our mission and have been essential to Hyundai becoming the brand it is today,” said Randy Parker, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America. 

“As we celebrate how far we’ve come, we’re also looking ahead with a bold vision to redefine what’s possible in mobility, technology and sustainability.”

Over the past four decades, the company has grown its model lineup, expanded its manufacturing facilities and built research and development centers focused on innovation and safety. It also pointed out that it's gained industry recognition with national and global awards, including North American Car of the Year and World Car of the Year. 

Looking ahead, Hyundai said it is “committed to making advanced, sustainable and innovative mobility accessible to all.” 

It continues to expand its electric-vehicle strategy and advance hydrogen fuel cell technology and artificial-intelligence features. The automaker has also “committed to pursuing carbon neutrality across its operations and supply chain.”