Hyundai Motor Leads Hydrogen Revolution in South Korea's Commercial Transport
Key Ideas
  • In 2025, nearly 20% of large buses sold in South Korea were hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, showing a significant increase from previous years.
  • Hyundai Motor Co. is shifting its focus to hydrogen-powered commercial transport due to the rising demand and advantages of hydrogen for larger vehicles.
  • Analysts highlight that hydrogen power is better suited for buses and trucks, offering benefits like longer range, shorter refueling times, and greater payload capacity.
  • Hyundai Motor is actively involved in the hydrogen segment, supplying hydrogen buses to key locations and partnering with major companies to promote the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
In South Korea, there has been a remarkable increase in the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the commercial transportation sector. Data from the Korea Automobile & Mobility Association and Hyundai Motor revealed that 19.8% of large buses sold in the first five months of 2025 were hydrogen-powered, marking a significant rise from previous years. This trend has prompted Hyundai Motor Co. to focus more on hydrogen-powered commercial transport, aiming to leverage the advantages of hydrogen for larger vehicles such as buses and trucks. Experts believe that while electric vehicles are suitable for lighter vehicles, hydrogen power offers key benefits like longer range, shorter refueling times, and increased payload capacity, making it more efficient for heavy-duty transportation. Hyundai Motor's commitment to hydrogen is evident through its initiatives in the commercial segment. The company has supplied 12 hydrogen buses to Incheon International Airport between 2021 and 2023, showcasing its dedication to sustainable transport solutions. Additionally, Hyundai Motor has partnered with On Bus, a major commuter bus operator, as well as Hyosung Hydrogen and Samsung C&T Corp., to facilitate the transition of the operator's fleet to hydrogen-powered vehicles. This strategic collaboration aims to further promote the use of hydrogen in the transportation industry, emphasizing the role of Hyundai Motor in driving the hydrogen revolution in South Korea's commercial transport sector.
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