Kolon Supplies Core Hydrogen Vehicle Parts to Hyundai Motor... Installed in New Nexo Model

A Kolon Industries researcher is inspecting the moisture control device supplied to Hyundai Motor Company's next-generation hydrogen fuel cell system. Photo by Kolon Industries

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] Kolon Industries announced on the 16th that it has signed a contract to supply moisture control devices, a key component of hydrogen vehicles, to Hyundai Motor Group.

The moisture control device plays a role in maintaining a constant internal humidity within the hydrogen fuel cell to efficiently generate electricity. Kolon Industries is the global number one company in moisture control devices, handling the entire process from membrane (electrolyte membrane) production to module assembly. The products to be supplied in the future will be used in various hydrogen-related mobility means, including the new Nexo model to be released in 2023.

Kolon's products were also used in the world's first mass-produced hydrogen vehicle Tucson released in 2013 and the second-generation hydrogen electric vehicle Nexo released in 2018. The scale of this contract is the largest since Kolon established a mass production system domestically in 2013. Globally, only Hyundai and Japan's Toyota have systems capable of mass-producing hydrogen vehicles.

Kolon plans to accelerate its market penetration, anticipating growth in the hydrogen vehicle-related market. A company official stated, "With this supply, we aim to elevate the technology and capabilities of hydrogen fuel cell materials and components to the next level and expand global market supply. We are also reviewing expansion investments in preparation for the rapidly increasing demand and market activation by collaborating with various overseas clients."

The moisture control device developed by Kolon manages the water and temperature of the stack and reduces the hydrogen concentration in exhaust gases. By reducing the device size and improving performance, it is used in various applications such as fuel cells for buildings. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, and to do this efficiently, the performance of membranes related to hydrogen ion movement is crucial. Kang Eegu, Vice President in charge of the fuel cell business at the company, said, "Through our core competency in materials and components business, we will contribute to the technological advancement and business expansion of hydrogen fuel cells."