Top BMW M chief heading to Kia, Hyundai

Since 2008, Biermann held the position of vice president of engineering at BMW M Automobiles and BMW Individual at BMW M GmbH, Germany. He joined BMW in 1983.

Over the years, he has played a key part in honing the performance and dynamics of some of the automaker's most acclaimed road and race cars.

NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE CARS

Based at the Hyundai Motor Group's R&D Centre in Namyang, South Korea, Biermann will lead the development of new high performance models, as well as oversee engineering projects relating to "ride and handling, safety, reliability, and the mitigation of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness)".

Most notably, Biermann's appointment, Hyundai/Kia says, will accelerate the roll-out of new high-performance vehicles and technologies, as well as help to improve the dynamic capabilities of cars across the range. The company intends to become a technical leader in ride and handling, producing vehicles that lead their respective segments for driver engagement.

REWARDS FOR DRIVERS

Biermann said: "I couldn't me more excited. This is a company I have watched closely as it has taken on its key competitors and quickly established a strong customer base in Europe. 2015 is a key year for the brand with the launch of many all-new models, so I am really looking forward to the challenge."

Woong Chul Yang, head of Hyundai-KIA R&D Centre, added: "This is a senior engineering appointment and an important part of our effort to further optimiSe the dynamics of our vehicles, providing even greater rewards for keen drivers.

"Biermann has unrivalled credentials in this field and his expertise and experience will help us bring forward the development of new cars that are great to drive, as well as speed the transfer of innovative technologies and insights between our road-car and motorsport engineering teams."