Hyundai Motor Group’s top design executives, Luc Donckerwolke and Peter Schreyer, have been honoured with the prestigious Automotive News Centennial Awards in recognition of their groundbreaking contributions to global automotive design. The awards were presented during the 2025 Automotive News Europe Congress held in Turin on June 11–12, marking the 100th anniversary of the publication.
Luc Donckerwolke, President, Chief Design Officer, and Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, was recognized for shaping the design direction of Hyundai Motor, Kia, and Genesis. Applauded for advancing innovative and distinctive design philosophies, Donckerwolke has played a pivotal role in elevating the global profile of the Group’s automotive brands. He joined the company in 2016, after key design roles at Skoda, Audi, Lamborghini, SEAT, and Bentley, and expanded his responsibilities as CCO in 2020.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Donckerwolke. “It reflects Hyundai Motor Group’s belief in design as a core driver of innovation and identity.”
Peter Schreyer, former President and Chief Design Officer, was celebrated for redefining Kia’s design identity with the introduction of the signature ‘tiger nose’ grille and for his influence across all three of the Group’s brands. Schreyer joined Kia in 2006 following design leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. He was instrumental in the revitalization of Hyundai’s SUV lineup and in strengthening the Group’s global brand coherence. Since his retirement in 2023, he has continued mentoring young designers through the Group’s collaboration with the Royal College of Art.
“It is an incredible honor,” said Schreyer. “This award belongs to the many creative teams I’ve worked with and to Hyundai Motor Group’s enduring commitment to meaningful, design-led progress.”
Also honoured was legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, whose designs include the original 1974 Hyundai Pony and Pony Coupe concept, the brand’s first mass-produced vehicle and a lasting inspiration for the Group’s current design leaders.
KC Crain, President and CEO of Crain Communications, highlighted the lasting influence of the awardees: “Peter Schreyer and Luc Donckerwolke have helped redefine what modern automotive design means. Their legacy is seen in vehicles admired globally for their beauty and innovation.”
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