Hyundai Motor, in collaboration with the South Korean Ministry of Environment, Seoul Metropolitan Government, SK E&S, and Tmap Mobility, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish Seoul as a leading city in hydrogen mobility.
The goal is to convert the city’s buses into hydrogen-powered vehicles, including city buses, airport buses, and commuter buses.
The agreement outlines plans to convert over 1,300 public transportation vehicles, including 300 airport buses, into hydrogen buses by 2026. To support the transition, five dedicated bus charging stations will be established. The Ministry of Environment will provide administrative and financial support for the conversion process.
Hyundai Motor will play a crucial role by supplying low-floor and high-floor hydrogen buses, including airport buses. These buses have a charging time of under 30 minutes and a driving range of over 600 km, making them suitable for public transportation. Hyundai has been supplying hydrogen buses to Seoul City since 2020 and will expand its production capacity to ensure a timely supply.
SK E&S, on the other hand, will focus on ensuring a stable production and supply of liquefied hydrogen, as well as establishing a charging infrastructure. Tmap Mobility will collaborate to accelerate the conversion of buses, including airport buses, to hydrogen-powered ones.
The shift to hydrogen buses in Seoul aims to enhance the eco-friendliness of public transportation, reduce emissions, and improve air quality. Hydrogen buses are well-suited for long-distance travel, making them ideal for airport buses as well. The project aligns with Hyundai Motor’s commitment to developing hydrogen commercial vehicles and promoting domestic hydrogen production.
While hydrogen buses offer significant advantages, such as shorter charging times and longer driving ranges, challenges remain. The establishment of a robust charging infrastructure, ensuring a stable hydrogen supply, and addressing the higher upfront costs compared to conventional buses are some of the hurdles that need to be overcome.
Hyundai Motor’s involvement in building a domestic hydrogen ecosystem is a testament to the company’s dedication to sustainable transportation. By constructing a clean hydrogen production facility that utilizes bio-gas, Hyundai aims to contribute to a circular hydrogen value chain and further support the transition to a greener transportation system.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Hyundai Motor, the South Korean government, and other partners signifies a significant step towards making Seoul a hydrogen mobility hub. By converting public transportation vehicles into hydrogen buses, the city will reduce emissions, improve air quality, and showcase the viability of hydrogen as a clean energy solution for urban transportation.
