Hyundai and Audi have announced a partnership to jointly develop fuel-cell vehicles and “lead the automotive industry to a more sustainable future”.

WHILE CAR MAKERS rush headlong into the development of electric vehicles, Hyundai has been working on both electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles. And now Audi wants a piece of its action, signing an agreement with the Korean car maker to co-develop fuel-cell technology.

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

“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,” said 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, cooperation is the smart way to leading innovations with attractive cost structures.”

The agreement between the two companies also covers subsidiary and, in Audi’s case, parent companies, including Kia and Volkswagen AG. “Hyundai and Audi, as well as their affiliates will equally share the patent licenses over the years to come. The duration of the agreement has not been disclosed,” a statement read.

To kick off the partnership, Hyundai has agreed to open its learnings on the development of its ix35 Fuel Cell and NEXO vehicles. Within the VW Group, Audi is responsible for the development of fuel-cell technology.