Guangzhou: Hyundai Motor Group has announced a strategic partnership with Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer Skywell Group to supply hydrogen-powered buses to Guangzhou Public Transport Group. The collaboration focuses on deploying jointly developed hydrogen fuel-cell buses to enhance the city's public transportation system.

According to Yonhap News Agency, HTWO Guangzhou, a subsidiary of Hyundai dedicated to hydrogen fuel-cell systems in China, collaborated with Skywell to develop an 8.5-meter hydrogen fuel-cell bus. This joint venture successfully participated in a bid initiated by the public transport operator to procure 50 hydrogen buses. The partnership secured the contract to supply 25 of these buses, which are expected to commence service within the year.

The introduction of these hydrogen buses signifies a significant milestone in the collaboration between Hyundai Motor and Skywell Group. Skywell expressed that this venture represents a critical step in transitioning hydrogen transportation from technological innovation to practical application in the market.

Both companies are looking to extend their collaboration beyond buses. Plans are underway to develop hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks, cold-chain logistics vehicles, and other commercial vehicles, as confirmed by Skywell.

Hyundai Motor Group recently completed the construction of its first overseas hydrogen fuel-cell system plant in Guangzhou. The facility, which has an annual production capacity of 6,500 units, is entirely owned by Hyundai. The South Korean automotive giant aims to leverage this plant to secure a leading position in the hydrogen fuel-cell and hydrogen-powered vehicle markets in China.