Hyundai Motor Company Joins Forces with HD KSOE and PNU to Develop Maritime Fuel Cell System

Hyundai Motor Company has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop a maritime fuel cell system. This initiative marks Hyundai Motor’s effort to extend its clean energy expertise beyond automobiles into new sectors.

The MoU brings together leading shipbuilders HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), along with Pusan National University (PNU), to develop and integrate key technologies for liquefied hydrogen carriers (LH2Cs[1]).

This innovative maritime fuel cell system is aiming to set a benchmark for reducing maritime emissions in compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) carbon regulations. It will also harness Hyundai Motor’s proven fuel cell technology for the specific demands of marine applications.

The partnership lays the groundwork for Hyundai Motor to expand beyond automobiles into new sectors. The consortium will co-develop key technologies for liquefied hydrogen carriers, with a shared focus on sustainability and innovation.

“This collaboration marks an important first step toward achieving carbon neutrality and expanding a sustainable global maritime industry. By combining Hyundai Motor Company’s hydrogen fuel cell technology, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering’s expertise in shipbuilding and maritime sectors, and Pusan National University’s research capabilities in hydrogen-powered vessels, we aim to set a new standard for future marine mobility.” – Ken Ramírez, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group’s Energy and Hydrogen Business Division.

What is the Focus of Hyundai’s Maritime Fuel Cell System Collaboration?

Under the MoU, the consortium will develop and demonstrate a maritime fuel cell system for mid- to large-scale liquefied hydrogen carriers. The key development goals include:

Hyundai Motor Company plans to develop a fuel cell system optimized for marine applications based on its existing fuel cell technology.

HD KSOE will carry out the integrated design of a hybrid electric propulsion system consisting of a hydrogen dual fuel engine and Hyundai Motor Company’s maritime hydrogen fuel cell.

PNU will conduct evaluation and demonstration of the system designed by HD KSOE.

Why is Hyundai’s Propulsion System Collaboration Significant?

The MoU paves the way for Hyundai Motor’s expansion into the maritime hydrogen fuel cell market. This partnership builds on Hyundai Motor’s established strength in hydrogen technology as the company takes its first step into the maritime sector, advancing cleaner and more sustainable marine mobility.

What are the Goals of Hyundai’s Propulsion System Collaboration?

The goal of this collaboration is to develop propulsion systems for the future shipping market that aligns with the carbon reduction targets set by the IMO. By adapting Hyundai Motor’s proven fuel cell technology for potential maritime applications, this partnership seeks to deliver practical hybrid propulsion solutions that help reduce emissions and support more sustainable shipping practices.

By collaborating with HD KSOE, one of the world’s top shipbuilders, Hyundai Motor can:

Establish a technical foundation for the maritime fuel cell system.

Gain valuable market references through mid- to large-scale projects.

Strengthen its position in the burgeoning hydrogen economy.

How Does the Collaboration Project Fit with Hyundai’s Vision?

This partnership reflects Hyundai Motor’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’ as it works toward cleaner mobility solutions. By combining expertise across industries and leveraging Hyundai Motor Group’s HTWO hydrogen brand and business platform, the MoU creates opportunities for future collaboration with governments, industry stakeholders, and shipping companies to support efforts that reduce emissions in maritime operations.