Hyundai GPS--Geared and Ready for the Next Normal in Auto Industry

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official Philippine distributor of Hyundai passenger and commercial vehicles, is rolling out its Guidelines for Protection and Safety (GPS) to help its employees, dealership front liners, business partners, and customers navigate the next normal upon resumption of operations.

Hyundai GPS is a wide-ranging set of health and safety guidelines covering the entire value chain of HARI--importation, assembly, office operations, vehicle delivery to dealerships, showroom operations, sales operations, after-sales, customer relations, test drives, and unit release. Hyundai GPS aims to protect the well-being and health of its stakeholders and includes the customer journey and facilities, processes, manpower, and operations.

Hyundai GPS guidelines are based on global standards, risk assessment, and protocols of the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

"It will not be easy," affirmed HARI President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo. "Even if the ECQ is lifted or modified, we do not expect to return to 'business as usual.' The great lock down has radically changed consumer behavior but we are ready for the next normal in auto. We are in the year of resilience and as a leading mobility provider, we are taking the needed steps to ensure the well-being of our customers and employees inside and outside our dealerships."

Hyundai customers can continue to avail of online channels to reach Hyundai C.A.R.E.S. (Customer Assistance and RESponse) at wecare@hyundai-asia.com and through @hyundaiph on Facebook Messenger. The company is set to roll out more virtual collaboration tools to ensure "no-contact" transactions and engagement.

"Since travel remains limited due to the inherent risk of contamination, we have on board our technical and non-technical crew to offer you immediate assistance right in the safety and comfort of home, via phone or video conferencing," explained Agudo. "Now if you must visit our dealerships, you can conveniently book appointments online. We will be implementing globally-prescribed health and safety measures for people entering and leaving our dealerships, our Hyundai Logistics Center, and Hyundai Assembly Center in Laguna."

Measures under Hyundai GPS include: social distancing of at least one meter apart; dealership front liners wearing the stipulated PPE gear; installation of sanitation booths equipped with thermal scanners and sanitizing material for incoming customers and employees; posting of safety reminders and availability of antibacterial sprays in all key areas--showroom, service bays, customer lounges, and toilets; provision of surgical masks, alcohol and hand sanitizers to customers; disinfection services including the option to fumigate new and serviced vehicles; for test drives and other transactions, the regular wiping down of all "high contact points," such as car door handles, steering wheels, and car keys; and regular sanitation of dealerships and parts warehouse.

As part of GPS, HARI has gone on board Project ARK (Antibody Rapid Test Kits), a private sector-led initiative that will make the FDA-approved rapid test kits available at the community level, thus complementing government efforts at "flattening the curve." HARI is one of the first local auto firms that signed up for Project ARK and has initially committed to 3,000 test kits for its employees and LGU beneficiaries.

"With Hyundai GPS, we are set to navigate the next normal in ensuring the stable movement of people and goods, while protecting people and property," Agudo reiterates. "And, to all our customers: There is life after COVID and we are ready to give you even Better Journeys!"

HARI has been actively supporting nationwide efforts to flatten the curve through H.A.R.I. Foundation's (HFI) flagship program #HyundaiSAGIP. Earlier this month, #HyundaiSAGIP rolled out Biyahe ng Bayani which provides free rides for health workers and transportation of medical supplies in Southern Luzon hospitals. This will soon be expanded in Northern Luzon. HFI also recently completed the delivery of 2,500 personal protective equipment (PPEs) to UP-PGH front liners.

Also ongoing is Hyundai's extension of coverage on all Hyundai passenger car and commercial vehicles whose warranties lapsed within the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) period until May 31, 2020.