During the early 1970s, when Hyundai was still in its nascent stages, Korea lacked vehicle design firms. Consequently, Hyundai sought the assistance of Italian firm GFG Style, led by its founder Giorgetto Giugiaro, to develop its inaugural independent cars for the global market. Among these ventures was the Pony Coupe, which made its grand debut at the Turin Motor Show in 1974. Regrettably, due to the adverse economic climate of the era, the Pony Coupe never reached production. Nonetheless, its remarkable design served as an inspiration for one of Giugiaro's most renowned creations, the DeLorean DMC 12.
Approaching the momentous 50th anniversary of the Pony Coupe, Hyundai has joined forces with Giugiaro and his son, Fabrizio, to meticulously recreate the original concept. Recently unveiled at an event held in Lake Como, Italy, the recreation faithfully preserves the essence of the original design. It boasts a distinctive angular aesthetic, a height lower than that of a Corvette, an interior true to its time, and driver-focused gauges that seemingly float in space.
The collaboration between Hyundai and Giugiaro has resulted in a remarkable revival of the Pony Coupe. By bringing back this iconic concept, the recreation pays homage to its heritage while incorporating modern engineering and design principles. The unveiled model captivated audiences with its timeless allure, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Pony Coupe and its significant role in Hyundai's automotive journey.
📷: HYUNDAI