Hyundai Motor's concept car on display in a motor show in Geneva.[Courtesy of Hyundai Motor]
SEOUL -- Hyundai Motor, a leading carmaker in South Korea, will suspend the production of four diesel models this week at home due to sluggish sales and rising oil prices as consumers favor hybrid and other eco-friendly cars.
Hyundai said Thursday that the diesel models of Sonata, i30, Grandeur and Maxcruz would not be produced from Friday. In June, the company stopped manufacturing the diesel version of i40, a large family car designed for the European market, but i30's diesel version will be available in Europe.
Hyundai's affiliate, Kia Motors, did not disclose any plans to suspend production of diesel cars. Sales of diesel models have been slow worldwide because hybrid and other eco-friendly cars gained popularity.
reporter
Lim Chang-won
cwlim34@ajunews.com
