Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun recently confirmed the Korean automaker’s commitment to promoting and expanding the use of hydrogen fuel. The company views hydrogen-powered vehicles as the first step in achieving a hydrogen society. The company produces both hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles and hydrogen fuel-powered internal combustion engines.
Hyundai’s leadership in the hydrogen vehicle industry is evident in the company’s performance last year. According to H2 Research, Hydundai sold 11,947 vehicle units in 2022, which accounted for 52 percent of global sales. This marked the fourth consecutive year that Hyundai held the top-performing spot in the industry.
In addition to fuel cell-powered vehicles, Hyundai Doosan Infracore is moving forward in developing its H2 internal combustion engine (ICE). Hyundai’s goal is to have the H2 ICE ready for mass production by 2025. With 402 horsepower, these engines are designed to power heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment. To further expand its hydrogen vehicle offerings, Hyundai also plans to release a hydrogen-electric tractor by the end of 2023.
Hyundai’s internal goal is to reach carbon neutrality by 2045. In his recent speech to the Hydrogen Council, a global network of CEOs working to promote hydrogen fuel technology, Hyundai’s Executive Chair noted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving global emissions goals. “The last five years have been a period for publicizing the possibility of hydrogen and preparing policy and institutional systems. Now is the time to act,” he stated. “Now, when we are facing slowing economic growth, growing geopolitical complications and intensifying protectionism, I believe it is most urgent to suggest a direction for global hydrogen cooperation so that we do not lose any momentum toward establishing a hydrogen society.”
OneH2 supports efforts across multiple industries to promote the adoption of hydrogen fuel. Hyundai’s advancement of hydrogen fuel applications in commercial and non-commercial vehicles continues to advance hydrogen technology and accessibility. With more vehicle options becoming available, demand for hydrogen as a clean energy fuel source will grow, along with the need for hydrogen fuel infrastructure to support this growing demand.
Sources:
https://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20230209000682
https://www.hydrogenfuelnews.com/hydrogen-engines-hyundai/8557564/
