Hyundai Motor Co. announced a new incentive plan Monday that would allow buyers to break contracts and return vehicles if they lose their job or income.

The program is the latest effort to win over jittery consumers as industry sales hit a two-decade low. The South Korean company is offering to cover up to $7,500 in negative equity on the lease or purchase of one of its cars or trucks.

To qualify for the giveback program, Hyundai owners must have made two scheduled payments on their loan or lease. The program covers the first 12 months of ownership.

The company would decide whether the person qualifies for the program based on his or her circumstances, then determine how much the vehicle is worth.

If buyers loses their income for reasons ranging from unemployment to death, Hyundai will allow them to return the vehicle.

Owners returning a car or truck would be liable only for negative equity over $7,500. For example, if you have a $20,000 loan remaining on a truck that is now worth only $10,000, you can return the truck and Hyundai will cover $7,500 of that $10,000 liability.

The industry sales slump has triggered an incentive war among auto makers, including Japanese companies that have traditionally been far less generous with deals and discounts than their U.S. rivals.

Hyundai, though its sales are down 10% through November, has picked up market share in the U.S.