Hyundai Motor America (HMA) currently has a problem that many other automakers wish they had. HMA is currently operating with a 32-day supply of inventory, which is thought to be believed to be the slimmest among all competitive brands and about half of current industry levels. A factor in Hyundai’s popularity is fuel efficiency, particularly in North America where fuel prices are well Malaysian prices. HMA notes that its supply of the highly fuel-efficient Accent, Elantra, and Veloster models are currently at extremely low levels of availability. Having demand exceed supply is an enviable position to be in but it forces them to be exceptionally efficient in our production planning, inventory management, and sales velocity.
A reflection of Hyundai’s popularity is May sales. On June 1, the automaker reported an all-time sales record of 67,019 units for the month; that number marks a more than 13% increase over last year’s all-time May record. Furthermore, it is the second best sales month in company history. Sales leader was once again, the popular Sonata mid-sized sedan; 20,765 units were sold in May. Close behind was the fuel-sipping compact Elantra with 18,877 units sold. The luxury Genesis sedan is increasing in popularity. Hyundai sold 3,828 units this May, compared to 2,769 for May 2011. Genesis and it’s even more luxurious sibling, Equus, enjoyed another all-time record volume month, representing a year-over-year sales increase of approximately 40%. The Azera sedan is placed between the Sonata and Genesis for both price and amenities. The all-new 2012 Azera continued its strong launch sales pace with a 558% increase over last May; the sporty little Veloster three-door coupe experienced a sales gain of almost 14% over April 2012. The bulk of Hyundai sales are to individuals; sales to fleet accounts were less than a 7% mix, among the lowest levels in the industry.
