Genesis Taps Former BMW Engineer to Head Platform Development

Hyundai Motor Co.’s high-end Genesis unit has hired former BMW AG engineer Fayez Abdul Rahman as vice president in charge of architecture development.

Rahman will be responsible for optimizing specifications, electronic systems and user experience from the start of platform design. Following its adoption at Genesis, the new processes will gradually be applied to other Hyundai Group vehicles to help them better compete with premium European brands, the South Korean carmaker says.

Rahman’s appointment comes as Genesis plans to double its three-sedan lineup to six cars and crossover vehicles by early next decade. He will report to Albert Biermann, executive vice president in charge of performance vehicle development for Hyundai, Genesis and Kia. Biermann joined Hyundai from BMW in April 2016 after a 30-year career with the German carmaker.

Rahman joined BMW in 1986 and most recently was responsible for high-end packaging and equipment for the carmaker and its “M” performance sub-brand. He previously led concept and platform architecture development for the 7 Series, X-badged crossover/SUVs and M models.