Hyundai Motor Europe (HME) is to take control of distributing its cars in the UK from Hyundai Car UK (HCUK) from the beginning of July.

This move follow the recent acquisition of HCUK’s parent company, RAC, by Aviva.

In 2004, Hyundai achieved its best year ever with a 17% increase in sales year on year, with total sales reaching 37,600 units.

HCUK managing director, David Walker, says: “During RAC’s period of ownership, we have significantly grown the Hyundai business in the UK, and have laid a firm foundation for its continuing growth and success in the future.”

Existing owners’ warranties will be unaffected.

Negotiations about the transfer of the business to HME are ongoing. However, it is expected that all the existing staff, based at the head office in High Wycombe and Import Centre at Tilbury, will transfer to the new business, with the exception of David Walker, managing director, John Lawrence, sales director and Claire Balmforth, HR and operations director, who have left the company.