What an unlikely union.
German carmaker Audi and Korean concern Hyundai have decided they’ll join forces in an effort to push greater development into fuel cell technology, it’s been announced. The two companies will cross-license patents and allow each other access to components that are non-competitive, with the goal to bring fuel cell technology to production maturity with greater speed and efficiency, and explore greater collaboration in innovation with the technology.
“The fuel cell is the most systematic form of electric driving and thus a potent asset in our technology portfolio for the emissions-free premium mobility of the future. On our FCEV roadmap, we are joining forces with strong partners, like Hyundai. For the breakthrough of this sustainable technology, cooperation is the smart way to leading innovations with attractive cost structures.” — Peter Mertens, Board Member (Technical R&D), Audi AG
Fuel cell technology has long been seen as an attractive alternative to full battery-electric vehicles, given the short refuel times imposed and the long-ranges being offered in exchange. Weight also plays a critical role here, with FCEVs weighing far less than fully-batteried counterparts. Further than the advancement of fuel-cell vehicles, the joint-venture between Hyundai and Audi is also believed to explore the realms of safe, sustainable production of hydrogen, and the infrastructure required.
“We are confident that our partnership with Audi will successfully demonstrate the vision and benefits of FCEVs to the global society. This agreement is another example of Hyundai’s strong commitment to creating a more sustainable future whilst enhancing consumers’ lives with hydrogen-powered vehicles, the fastest way to a truly zero-emissions world.” — Euisun Chung, Vice Chairman, Hyundai Motor Corporation
While Hyundai’s FCEV efforts are perhaps best captured in the Hyundai Nexo that was launched earlier this year, it might escape all but the most ardent Audi fans that the company has been tasked with fuel-cell development by the VW Group for some time, and has been working on concepts that run on hydrogen fuel-cell cars for the better part of two decades.
For more information on Hyundai or Audi, check out our Showroom.
