South Korean automakers Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have partnered with W. L. Gore & Associates to develop advanced polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for hydrogen fuel cell systems. These new gen fuel cell will power the next generation of electric commercial vehicles. Hyundai, Kia and Gore have been collaborating in the field of fuel cells for over 15 years now.
Hyundai – Kia PEM Fuel Cell
A hydrogen fuel cell utilizes PEM to conduct protons between two electrodes. The PEM blocks the direct combination of incoming hydrogen and oxygen gases, facilitating the selective conduction of protons and, in turn, generating an electrical current to power a vehicle. The PEM technology plays a crucial role in determining the performance and durability of the fuel cell system.
“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.”
Gore, an advanced materials company based in the US, is an expert in PEM, Catalyst coated Membrane and MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly) technology. Hyundai Motor and Kia aims to incorporate advanced PEM technology into next-generation fuel cell systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and non-automotive sectors.
“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.”
Hyundai Motor Group has been working on the Hydrogen technology for 25 years, which led to the establishment of the HTWO hydrogen business brand in 2020. The Group is expanding its fuel cell business globally, covering various sectors, including passenger and commercial vehicles, marine vessels, aerospace applications, power generation and more.