Hyundai’s Shift Toward Sustainable Mobility
The rapid move toward sustainable solutions has inspired more efficient and impactful approaches to address major environmental challenges. As a result, the automotive industry—including Hyundai Motor—has embraced hybrid and electric vehicles to pave the way for a greener future. In pursuit of a more sustainable world, Hyundai is investing in one of the simplest yet most innovative solutions: hydrogen, the lightest and most abundant element in the universe.
Hyundai’s Strategic Direction in Hydrogen Technologies
On the company’s strategic vision for hydrogen, Mr. Hyung Jung Im, President of Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa, explained: “Twenty years ago, Hyundai Motor established a dedicated research team to develop fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology. Our vision was straightforward—FCEVs and electric vehicles (EVs) could make a significant market impact by transitioning from conventional engines to more environmentally friendly technologies. Today, we are proud of our team’s achievements, which have positioned Hyundai Motor at the forefront of hydrogen fuel cell innovation.”
Milestones in Hyundai’s Fuel Cell Development
In 2013, Hyundai introduced its first FCEV: the Santa Fe Fuel Cell. This model became the world’s first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle, marking a new era in Hyundai’s fuel cell technology development. Subsequent advancements included the launch of models like the NEXO, which was based on the innovative FE Fuel Cell concept.
Next-Generation Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems
Hyundai Motor aims to deliver the next generation of fuel cell systems, focusing on enhanced performance and durability, a lighter structure, and improved energy density. This goal will be achieved by offering a diverse and highly efficient lineup of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Hyundai’s “Fuel Cell Vision 2030”
In December 2018, Hyundai Motor unveiled its “Fuel Cell Vision 2030”—a comprehensive long-term roadmap underscoring the brand’s commitment to accelerating the development of a hydrogen society. This vision targets securing an annual production capacity of 700,000 fuel cell systems by 2030, not only for vehicles but also for non-automotive sectors such as ships, trains, drones, and power generators.
