Saudi Deal Ramps Up Hyundai's Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Program

Hyundai has reaffirmed its commitment to the future of hydrogen powertrains with its plans to establish and develop an ecosystem for hydrogen-based mobility in Saudi Arabia.

The automaker has signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Automotive Technology Institute (KATECH), Air Products Qudra (APQ) and the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO). The parties have agreed to cooperate in establishing a hydrogen-based mobility ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and to provide support on technological services and human resources. Specific areas of collaboration include promoting demonstration projects for hydrogen fuel-cell commercial vehicles and exploring opportunities for joint research in the field of hydrogen mobility.

Hyundai is expected to provide hydrogen fuel-cell commercial vehicles to SAPTCO as part of the partnership. Meanwhile, KATECH is expected to explore further opportunities for collaboration in research and development and APQ will secure a hydrogen supply in Saudi Arabia for the partnership. SAPTCO is expected to closely cooperate with the stakeholders to formulate a long-term plan aimed at  expanding the ecosystem for hydrogen-based mobility in the country.

Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, says: “This partnership with the country's major stakeholders represents a significant milestone in our efforts to establish a sustainable hydrogen value chain in Saudi Arabia. We also plan to continuously expand the hydrogen-based mobility industry in line with Saudi Arabia's ambition to reach net zero emissions.”