South Korean automaker KG Mobility Corporation (KGM) announced it has entered into an agreement with Phinia Delphi France SA to collaborate in the development of a hydrogen-powered light vehicle engine. The two companies have agreed to work together as part of a South Korean government-sponsored project, also involving the Korea Automotive Technology Institute, in the development of a low-cost hydrogen engine.
The technology collaboration agreement was signed off at KGM’s research and development (R&D) centre in Pyeongtaek, just south of Seoul. The research will focus on the development of a hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) based on an existing KGM 2L diesel engine. The project ultimately aims to develop a hydrogen-powered light multi-purpose utility vehicle.
Phinia Delphi will provide its expertise in fuel-injection and electronic control unit (ECU) technologies, while KGM will contribute its proprietary diesel engine technologies.
A KGM spokesperson said in a statement: “This collaboration will not only enable us to develop cutting-edge hydrogen engines, but also pave the way for new markets, such as alternative fuel vehicles and eco-friendly pickups."
KGM, previously known as Ssangyong Motor, was acquired in late 2022 by a consortium led by local steel and chemicals firm KG Group. It sold 109,424 vehicles globally last year - mostly SUVs.
