Hyundai Motor Company and Bee’ah Group are set to embark on a pilot project to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen as a key player in the UAE’s transportation sector. The partnership encompasses a comprehensive trial, utilizing Hyundai’s XCIENT fuel cell truck, marking a significant stride in advancing sustainable and emission-free mobility in the region.
The memorandum of understanding signed between Hyundai Motor and Bee’ah Group outlines a strategic collaboration, delving into various aspects of hydrogen mobility. This includes the operation of an electric truck powered by hydrogen fuel cells on an experimental basis in the emirates of Sharjah and Dubai. The broader goal is to showcase the effectiveness of hydrogen as a future fuel while fostering a partnership that extends beyond the initial trial.
Bee’ah Group, known for its pioneering work in sustainability in the Middle East, has been at the forefront of adopting innovative solutions. Renowned for waste-to-energy initiatives and achieving zero waste, Bee’ah operates a substantial fleet, including electric vehicles, and is now exploring hydrogen as a fuel within the ambit of the UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy. The focus is on decarbonizing the fleet and promoting low-emission mobility in alignment with sustainability objectives.
As part of the pilot project, Hyundai Motor will provide Bee’ah Group with its XCIENT fuel cell electric truck. Launched in 2020, the XCIENT Fuel Cell stands as the world’s first mass-produced heavy electric truck powered by fuel cells. Notably, the truck has been operational in six countries, covering more than 8 million kilometers. The pilot project will evaluate the feasibility of integrating Hyundai’s fuel cell electric truck into daily operations, potentially paving the way for a transition from traditional internal combustion engine fleets.
With a robust focus on hydrogen for the past 25 years, Hyundai Motor has positioned itself as a global leader in fuel cell technology. The XCIENT Fuel Cell utilizes Hyundai’s cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell system, supplied by HTWO. The company’s commitment to expanding its fuel cell business spans various sectors, including commercial vehicles, personal use vehicles, marine vessels, aerospace applications, power generation, and more.
The collaboration between Hyundai and Bee’ah Group aligns with the UAE’s ambitious National Hydrogen Strategy 2050. With an aim to be a producer and exporter of low-emission hydrogen by 2031, the UAE envisions a demand of 2.7 million tons annually from low-carbon hydrogen. Hydrogen mobility emerges as a key driver in meeting these goals, emphasizing the country’s dedication to cutting-edge technologies for climate neutrality by 2050.
Mark Freimiller, Senior Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicles Business at Hyundai Motor, expressed pride in supporting Bee’ah’s innovative sustainability solutions. The XCIENT fuel cell truck’s trial under real conditions marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between the two entities, exploring avenues to expand cooperation.
As the UAE positions itself as a global player in the hydrogen landscape, partnerships like Hyundai and Bee’ah’s pave the way for real-world applications, emphasizing the crucial role of hydrogen in the transition to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation.
