Hyundai Motor and Kia have joined forces with Kolon Spaceworks to enhance the materials used in their eco-friendly mobility solutions. The agreement was formalized on Monday at Hyundai’s Namyang Research and Development Center in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province.
Kolon Spaceworks, known for its expertise in advanced materials, will collaborate with the automakers to improve hydrogen fuel tanks and electric vehicle battery covers. The initiative aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Hyundai and Kia’s sustainable mobility offerings while ensuring compliance with international environmental standards.
The partnership aligns with Hyundai and Kia’s ongoing efforts to meet the European Union’s vehicle disposal regulations, which emphasize material recycling and environmental hazard management in decommissioned vehicles.
“With the shift in the automotive industry paradigm, a wider range of eco-friendly materials are being used in vehicles,” said Yang Hee-won, head of research and development for both automakers. “We expect our collaboration with Kolon Spaceworks will enhance our business competitiveness by developing advanced composite materials for vehicles and driving technological innovation.”
Kolon Spaceworks specializes in developing lightweight yet durable materials for space rockets and aircraft. The company has previously worked with Hyundai on optimizing commercial electric vehicle components, and the renewed collaboration is expected to drive further advancements.
Lee Kyu-ho, vice chair of Kolon Group, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “I hope this collaboration will enhance Korea’s industrial competitiveness by combining Kolon’s advanced material technology with the expertise of Hyundai and Kia, which leads the global auto industry.”
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