Hyundai Motor and US diesel engine manufacturer Cummins have signed a preliminary agreement to explore opportunities to collaborate in the development and supply of hydrogen fuel cell powertrains.
The initial plan is to jointly develop and commercialise fuel cell powertrains by combining Hyundai's fuel cell systems expertise with Cummins' electric powertrain, battery and control technologies.
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Initial development will focus on the North American commercial vehicle market including working with OEMs on the integration of the new powertrains into their vehicles.
The two companies will also explore ways working together in developing next generation fuel cell systems and both have already committed to assign a team to investigate and pursue other areas of collaboration, in areas such as backup power generators.
Cummins head of corporate strategy, Thad Ewald, said: "This partnership is a terrific opportunity for both companies to leverage our respective strengths and create new opportunities to grow and broaden our product portfolio.
"We have made significant investments over the past year to accelerate our fuel cell capabilities including the acquisition of Hydrogenics, which was another major step forward."
Hyundai expects the collaboration to provide a springboard to strengthen its presence in the North America commercial vehicle market and also to explore business opportunities in other markets.
Kim Sae-hoon, in charge of the carmaker's fuel cell business, said the partnership would enable Hyundai to further diversify its activities and strengthen its global hydrogen leadership.
