Hyundai Motor, Kia, and W. L. Gore have inked a significant deal at South Korea’s Mabuk Eco-Friendly R&D Center, aligning to jointly pioneer the advancement of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) technology for hydrogen fuel cell systems.
Advancing PEM Technology in Fuel Cells
W. L. Gore, hailing from Delaware, USA, renowned for its expertise in PEM, Catalyst coated Membrane, and MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly) technology, is poised to bring its specialized knowledge to this collaboration. By merging Gore’s groundbreaking PEM technology with Hyundai Motor and Kia’s seasoned proficiency in fuel cell systems, the objective is to integrate cutting-edge PEM technology into next-gen fuel cell systems, catering to a broad spectrum from cars to commercial vehicles and beyond.
This collaboration is set to cover pivotal facets of PEM development. Primarily targeting the creation of an advanced PEM tailored for the forthcoming fuel cell electric commercial vehicles. The PEM within a hydrogen fuel cell acts as a conductor for protons between electrodes. Effectively hindering the direct combination of hydrogen and oxygen gases. This selective conduction of protons then generates the electrical power that propels the vehicle. Thus emphasizing the pivotal role of PEM technology in ensuring optimal performance and endurance of the fuel cell system.
Hyundai’s Next-Gen Fuel Cell Collaboration
The partnership between these three extends back more than 15 years in the realm of fuel cell research. This prolonged association serves as a foundation upon which this venture builds. Now channeling efforts towards co-developing an optimal fuel cell system specifically honed for commercial vehicles, emphasizing performance enhancement and durability.
This initiative amplifies Hyundai Motor Group’s quarter-century dedication to hydrogen technology, culminating in the establishment of the HTWO hydrogen business brand in 2020. The Group’s proactive global expansion in the fuel cell sector encompasses diverse domains such as passenger and commercial vehicles, marine vessels, aerospace applications, power generation, and more.
Official Statement
“We are entering the next chapter of our partnership with Gore.” said Chang Hwan Kim, Head of Battery Development and Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Development at Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation. “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.”
“We look forward to advancing our long-standing partnership with Hyundai Motor and Kia.” said Michelle Augustine, Gore Clean Energy Business Group Leader. “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.”