Fuel cell co-operation

AUDI AG and Hyundai Motor Group are planning to collaborate on the future development of fuel cell technology in a bid to bring this technology to volume production more quickly and efficiently. Although the arrangement is still subject to approval from the relevant authorities, the collaboration would see the two companies cross-license patents and grant access to non-competitive components initially with a view to potentially entering into more far-reaching co-operation on the development of the sustainable technology.

Hydrogen has long beed an attractive source of energy particularly for use in electric mobility. This is particularly true for larger automobiles, where the weight advantages of the fuel cell vehicle inherent to its design are particularly pronounced. Besides further advances in fuel cell technology, key aspects for its future market success include the regenerative production of hydrogen and the establishment of a sufficient infrastructure.

“The fuel cell is the most systematic form of electric driving and thus a potent asset in our technology portfolio for the emission-free premium mobility of the future,” says Peter Mertens, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

“On our FCEV roadmap, we are joining forces with strong partners such as Hyundai. For the breakthrough of this sustainable technology, co-operation is the smart way to leading innovations with attractive cost structures.”

“We are confident that our partnership with Audi will successfully demonstrate the vision and benefits of FCEVs to the global society,” says Euisun Chung, Vice Chairman at Hyundai Motor Company.

“This agreement is another example of Hyundai’s strong commitment to creating a more sustainable future whilst enhancing consumers’ lives with hydrogen-powered vehicles, the fastest way to a truly zero-emission world.” 

AUDI AG is no stranger to working with alternative fuel sources, and has worked on fuel cell concepts for nearly two decades. The first test vehicle was the compact Audi A2H2 in 2004, followed by the Audi Q5 HFC in 2008. Then in 2014 Audi A7 Sportback h-tron quattro introduced the ‘h-tron’ suffix for models with fuel cell technology (the ‘h’ standing for the element hydrogen) and in 2016 the Audi h-tron quattro concept study was presented in Detroit.

Responsible for the development of fuel cell technology for the VW group, Audi is currently working on its sixth generation at the Group’s Fuel Cell Competence Centre at the Neckarsulm site, and as soon as 2020, will look to introduce the first fuel cell model as a small series production. 

The vehicle will be a sporty SUV combining the premium comfort of the full-size segment with long-range capability. The cross-license agreement with Hyundai is already focused on the next development stage intended for a broader market offer.