Following nearly 10 years of research and development (R&D) efforts, Hyundai Motor has recently succeeded in developing its own membrane electrode assembly (MEA), a core component of every fuel cell and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV).
According to the largest automaker in S. Korea, the Hyundai-Kia Eco-Technology Research Institute had independently designed and developed an MEA technology and successfully localized the production of MEAs in August. The MEA is a key fuel cell part, equivalent to the engine cylinder of an internal combustion engine.
Hyundai Motor has been thus far dependent entirely on MEA imports. Its newly developed MEA is cheaper and reportedly better than imports in terms of durability and performance. Its durability is 1.5 times better than that of imported MEAs.
“As a matter of fact, the successful development of this MEA technology is equal to pulling off the production of a purely homegrown hydrogen-powered car,” said an official from Hyundai Motor.
For a start, three Tucson ix35 FCEVs will be equipped with the new MEA and be supplied to a local government on September 21.
This MEA technology is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the overall fuel cell industry, from hydrogen FCVs and fuel cells for transportation to fuel cells for homes and power generation.
