In a significant move towards advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation, and W. L. Gore & Associates have inked a collaborative agreement at the Mabuk Eco-Friendly R&D Center in Korea. The focus of this collaboration is to develop an advanced polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) crucial for hydrogen fuel cell systems.
The joint effort aims to push the boundaries of PEM development, with a specific focus on creating an advanced PEM for the next generation of fuel cell electric commercial vehicles. The PEM is an integral component of a hydrogen fuel cell, facilitating the selective conduction of protons and generating the electrical current to power a vehicle.
For over 15 years, Hyundai Motor, Kia, and Gore have been partners in the realm of fuel cells. This new collaboration marks a significant step forward, with a dedicated focus on jointly developing an optimal fuel cell system for commercial vehicles. The emphasis will be on enhancing performance and durability.
Chang Hwan Kim, Head of Battery Development and Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Development at Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation, said, “We are entering the next chapter of our partnership with Gore. By leveraging the 15 years of collaboration, we will acquire advanced fuel cell technology and lead the fuel cell electric vehicle market, accelerating the movement towards a sustainable future.”
Gore, an advanced materials company based in Delaware, USA, brings its expertise in PEM, Catalyst coated Membrane, and MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly) technology to the table. The collaboration aims to integrate Gore's advanced PEM technology into next-generation fuel cell systems for a wide spectrum, including passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and non-automotive sectors.
Michelle Augustine, Gore Clean Energy Business Group Leader, stated, 'Leveraging our advanced PEM technology solutions, we will work together with Hyundai Motor and Kia to enable them to deliver fuel cell vehicles that provide a performance and cost advantage to consumers.'
This collaboration is a significant milestone for Hyundai Motor Group, which has been at the forefront of hydrogen technology for 25 years. The group actively expands its fuel cell business globally, covering diverse sectors such as passenger and commercial vehicles, marine vessels, aerospace applications, power generation, and more. As the automotive industry continues to embrace sustainable solutions, this collaboration positions Hyundai and Kia at the forefront of innovation in hydrogen fuel cell technology.
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