Hyundai Story | Hyundai GT

February 23, 2019, will be etched in Pakistani automotive enthusiasts’ mind for long. It was not just the day when a leading Korean automaker launched two of its premier brands in Pakistan, but most importantly the day when Pakistan’s very first digital showroom was launched.

When the government launched its Automotive Policy 2016-21, no one had envisaged that it would alter the course of the automobile industry in Pakistan. While many had predicted the influx of various foreign automakers in Pakistan, no one could have seen back then how it would change the way cars are launched in Pakistan, their marketing, the way they are bought and sold here, etc. Hyundai-Nishat has shown itself to be a true beneficiary of the policy.

While it may be an exaggeration to call the event in Lahore’s Emporium Mall “the Oscars”, it was nothing short of something new and unusual. A state-of-the-art stage decorated with lightings with an MC on the stage, flanked by the leading luminaries of Hyundai and Nishat Group, including Mian Mansha, it was truly an event which left its mark on those who were there.

Mian Mansha, while talking to PaKWheels elaborated the concept of a digital showroom. He was of the opinion that traditional showrooms are fading away and that digital showrooms are taking their place. Here, a consumer can select his car and then buy it after being completely satisfied. When asked about the importance of Hyundai-Nishat Group joint venture, he said that Hyundai is one of the biggest automakers in the world, which is experiencing rapid sales growth in the rest of the world and should, therefore, be able to do the same in Pakistan. He also said that the joint venture is launching four cars – 2 SUV’s, a pickup, and a van. Mansha surprised everyone when he said that the future is of hydrogen cars and not even electric cars. And tHyundaindai is experimenting with it in South Korea, while Toyota is doing the same in Japan.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hideo Takenaka, Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing of Hyundai-Nishat Group, was of the opinion that digital showrooms are new concept showrooms and that will transform the car buying experience for Pakistani consumers. He also said that Santa Fe is their flagship model and it gives him immense pleasure to launch this car in Pakistan. He further informed that his company is manufacturing a plant in Faisalabad, which will become operational towards the end of 2019. He predicted that Pakistan’s automotive sector will grow steadily in the future.

After speeches from Hyundai’s representatives, highlighting the importance of an emerging automotive market in Pakistan, and ending the note on hoping for an even brighter future for this joint venture, the two models – Santa Fe and Grand Starex were literally unveiled. But not before some fireworks.

To be honest, the launch was very much like how other cars are launched. People were allowed to see and sit in cars, take pictures, selfies, etc. The detailed specifications of the cars were also available for those who were interested. However, it was the digital showroom itself, which stole the show.

After its ribbon-cutting ceremony, people could enter a wide rectangular hall with white painted walls. Hyundai-Nishat Showroom on Emporium Mall’s Ground Floor exuded purity and confidence. In addition, a real Hyundai Santa Fe which was parked in the showroom and the friendly representatives who were at hand to answer all of your questions, there were two touch screens with two giant TV screens in front of them, which was thronged by many. This was the digital side of the showroom, where you could discover these two models in more detail from the touch of your hand. This was the unique aspect of this launch.

Moving to the two models which were unveiled today – Sana Fe is an SUV with the following features and specifications:

2.4L petrol engine
6 speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
Length: 4,770mm
Width: 1,890mm
Height: 1,680-1,705mm
Wheelbase: 2,765mm

Grand Starex was the other vehicle launched at the event. Its features and specifications are as follows:
4-door van
Light-commercial vehicle
2.4L petrol engine
5-speed manual and automatic
Length: 5,150mm
Width: 1,920mm
Height: 1,925mm
Wheelbase: 3,200mm
There is a lot more to these cars than what can be covered here. You have to see them to believe them. Irrespective of whether you buy a Hyundai, you must visit this digital showroom. It is all worth the while.

Orignally posted on Pakwheels.com