Hyundai Motor Co. has commenced the construction of its inaugural manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia, signaling a significant step in the company's global expansion endeavors. The groundbreaking ceremony for Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Middle East (HMMME) took place at the King Salman Automotive Cluster within King Abdullah Economic City, facilitated by a joint venture between Hyundai and Saudi's Public Investment Fund. Scheduled to commence operations in the fourth quarter of 2026, the plant is set to have an annual production capacity of 50,000 units, encompassing both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine models. This initiative forms a core component of Saudi Arabia's strategy to cultivate a domestic automotive industry, with the King Salman Automotive Cluster positioned as the country's new automotive manufacturing hub. The ceremony, attended by numerous dignitaries and officials from both nations, emphasized the inauguration of a new chapter for Hyundai Motor and Saudi Arabia, with expectations that the plant will enhance the Vision 2030 initiative by nurturing local talent proficient in mobility technology. As part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economic landscape and move away from oil dependency, the country is actively promoting the growth of its automotive sector. In parallel, Hyundai is focusing on establishing a hydrogen mobility ecosystem in Saudi Arabia in partnership with local entities to foster a sustainable transport framework. This collaboration will involve creating a hydrogen mobility environment, testing hydrogen electric buses through a pilot project, and engaging in government-supported research programs to advance hydrogen-based mobility solutions.