Hyundai Motor Co., South Korea’s leading automaker, is set to convert its Jeonju plant into a dedicated manufacturing hub for hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. This strategic move aims to bolster Hyundai’s competitiveness amid growing pressure from Chinese and European imports.
The Jeonju facility, located in North Jeolla Province, will focus on producing hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), including buses and trucks. Currently, the plant manufactures electric buses, multi-purpose vehicles like the Staria, mid-size trucks, and hydrogen-powered commuter vehicles. With an annual capacity of 100,000 units, it operated at just 40% last year, producing 39,934 vehicles.
This shift is expected to significantly enhance factory utilization. Hyundai recently increased its hydrogen bus production capacity to 3,100 units annually, up from 500 the previous year. The Jeonju plant will start building car transport trucks based on the Xcient hydrogen model, refrigerated trucks, and fuel cell tractors within the year. Additionally, new hydrogen-powered express and low-floor buses are slated for development by 2027.
Hyundai’s investment in hydrogen technology reflects its commitment to leading the global hydrogen vehicle market, having previously invested in H2 Mobility Deutschland GmbH & Co. in 2021. Despite the higher costs of FCEVs compared to battery electric vehicles, hydrogen trucks offer greater range, making them ideal for long-haul transport.
