The World Car Awards jury panel representing 102 journalists from 33 countries has voted Luc Donckerwolke, Hyundai Motor Group’s executive vice president for design and chief creative officer, as the 2022 World Car Person of the Year.

To be eligible, award candidates must have made a significant contribution to the global automotive industry with global impact from January 1 to December 31, 2021 (not limited to one market or region). That contribution could include a significant impact to their brand or company, for example, or a significant safety, engineering, design or technical advancement or other significant benefit for the consumer.

Donckerwolke was chosen by the jury since he has held design responsibility for a number of highly innovative new models, including the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Genesis GV60 and Kia EV6, which were launched over the past year. In addition, his restomod Pony and Grandeur models have paid homage to the great and often neglected automotive heritage of Korea.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Person of the Year award and would like to thank all of the jury members and the valued team at Hyundai Motor Group, without whom this would not have been possible,” said Donckerwolke.

“I have worked for many companies and brands over my career and I’m delighted at the recognition the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands have received. They are a true reflection of the effort of all of the Hyundai Motor Group employees, retailers and partners who have worked steadfastly to develop a strong lineup of compelling and relevant vehicles on sale in over 200 countries worldwide.”

There were four other finalists for this award that was created in 2018:

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors

James Gay-Rees and Paul Martin, Netflix’s Formula 1 Drive to Survive

Tadge Juechter, General Motors, Corvette Executive Chief Engineer

Linda Zhang, Ford F-150 Lightning Chief Engineer