Hyundai Motor Group has joined forces with the prestigious Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). This groundbreaking partnership, spanning multiple decades, is set to drive cutting-edge research and development initiatives in the realms of battery technology and the burgeoning hydrogen economy.
The collaboration between Hyundai and Georgia Tech carries special significance as it harks back to a two-decade-old legacy initiated by honorary chairman Chung Mong-koo. His visionary decision to establish Kia’s first U.S. plant in Georgia back in 2006 laid the foundation for Hyundai’s enduring relationship with the state. This association culminated in Hyundai’s recent $12.6 billion investment in electric vehicle (EV)-dedicated facilities and battery manufacturing plants within Georgia, marking a significant stride towards a sustainable and electrified automotive future.
At the heart of this partnership lies a commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. Distinguished professors at Georgia Tech will collaborate closely with Hyundai America Technical Center and Hyundai Namyang R&D Center on pioneering research endeavors. These joint ventures will focus on driving advancements in battery technology, which is a linchpin for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
However, this partnership extends beyond academia. Hyundai has pledged its support for startups incubated by Georgia Tech students, fostering an ecosystem of innovation that will witness young minds collaborating directly with Hyundai subsidiaries. In addition, select Georgia Tech students will have access to scholarships and internship opportunities within Hyundai, offering them a unique chance to make a tangible impact on the automotive industry.
The ties between Hyundai and Georgia Tech hark back to 2006 when Kia’s West Point plant commenced mass production. Over the past 14 years, this facility has rolled out more than 4 million vehicles, marking a significant milestone in Hyundai’s journey in Georgia. Beyond the numbers, Hyundai’s investments in the state are projected to generate nearly 40,000 jobs and contribute $4.6 billion in individual earnings annually, according to an analysis by the Center for Automotive Research.
As Hyundai and Georgia Tech embark on this ambitious journey, the world watches with anticipation, knowing that their combined efforts hold the key to driving automotive technology to unprecedented heights and shaping a sustainable, electrified future for the industry.
