Hyundai marks the 3-millionth Elantra sold in America; local hero honored

(September 26, 2017) BAYTOWN, Texas — Hyundai marked its 3-millionth Elantra sold in the United States Monday by commemorating the achievement of one brave individual in Baytown, Texas, a city near Houston severely impacted by flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey.

Henry Rogers, paramedic field supervisor for Acadian Ambulance, was on the front lines facing the destructive force of Hurricane Harvey by helping, and saving lives of, the most vulnerable for more than 48 hours despite leaving his family and home alone during the storm.

While performing his call of duty and rescuing several victims, Henry’s wife was left to care for their three adopted children and three dogs.

When the flooding waters began to enter their home, Mrs. Rogers was forced to place all three children and their dogs on the dining room table and seek help. A neighbor rescued their children and two dogs but when it came to rescue Henry’s wife, the water was too high. Mrs. Rogers spent the night on the dining room table with their German shepherd as they waited for help. Henry was finally able to come home and rescue his wife and dog the next afternoon. Their home and all belongings were devastated by Hurricane Harvey.

In a ceremony at Baytown Hyundai, Rogers was presented with a 2018 Hyundai Elantra and an Infinity Audio System for his immeasurable public service role and contribution to the community.

“We humbly mark the 3-millionth Elantra sold in the United States by honoring a local hero for his selfless service and commitment to the Baytown and Greater Houston communities, said Mike O’Brien, vice president, corporate, product and digital planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Local heroes and first responders like Mr. Rogers are a true inspiration to all and a reflection of the best values shared by all Americans.”

In the Houston area, Hyundai is committed to helping its customers and dealers recover from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. Hyundai launched a disaster relief program that provides a $750 discount on all 2017-2018 Hyundai models for customers who had a vehicle damaged in either hurricane. In addition, Hyundai Hope On Wheels donated $200,000 to five Texas-area children’s hospitals and Hyundai Motor America donated $300,000 to the American Red Cross to support the relief effort.

The Hyundai Elantra was first introduced in 1991as a 1.6-liter 113-hp sedan(pictured at right)  and has become of the best-selling models, known for its significant value advantage in a highly competitive compact car segment.

In November 2010, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) began production of the fifth-generation Elantra. HMMA headquartered in Montgomery, Ala., currently employs approximately 3,000 team members and produces the 2018 Elantra and Sonata sedans as well as the 2018 Santa Fe Sport crossover utility vehicle.

Now in its sixth generation, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra sports a bold aerodynamic design with a comprehensive suite of safety features, modern interior styling with class-above features and user-friendly technologies.