Hyundai and Skoda are unlikely to become bedfellows after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop hydrogen-based mobility solutions – but that may not apply to cars.
The MOU was signed by executives from Hyundai Motor Company and Skoda Group in Prague as part of the Korea-Czech Business Summit.
According to Hyundai, the MOU includes “research into the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell systems and technologies, research into adoption of energy-efficient solutions for mobility projects and products, and exploring opportunities for the hydrogen ecosystem and value chain beyond mobility.”
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However, we may not see the partnership culminate in models in new car showrooms.
The two Skoda representatives at the signing were Petr Novotný, CEO of the train-focused Skoda Transportation, and Jaromir Silhanek, CEO of Skoda Electric, a subsidiary of the former company.
Skoda’s current range of hydrogen vehicles is limited to buses and trams, while its passenger cars are limited to traditional petrol and diesel engines, plus battery-electric options.
Hyundai, meanwhile, has developed a wide range of hydrogen vehicles, ranging from the Nexo SUV, the Xcient Fuel Cell truck and the Elec City FCEV bus.
It’s currently unclear what the duo’s plans are, although they have said they will “conduct feasibility studies for fuel cell system applications for diverse uses beyond mobility.”
“Both parties share the vision that hydrogen will be an important pillar for a sustainable society, starting with mobility.”
Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) remain niche products, both globally and in Australia.
Only ten FCEVs have been delivered locally this year, including one Hyundai Nexo and nine Toyota Mirais.
Last year, Hyundai and Toyota signed an MOU in Australia to work with Ampol and Pacific Energy on the local development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
