Hyundai Motor Group has taken a decisive step in shaping the future of clean energy by showcasing its hydrogen-powered innovations at the 16th Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM16) in Busan. The company highlighted hydrogen as a critical enabler of industrial decarbonisation, energy efficiency, and long-term energy resilience while underlining the importance of public-private collaboration to accelerate adoption globally.
To demonstrate hydrogen’s practical applications, Hyundai provided a fleet of 32 NEXO fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) as official transport for ministers and delegates attending both CEM16 and the APEC Energy Ministerial Meeting. This milestone marked the first time hydrogen-powered FCEVs were used as state vehicles at a major international event, positioning Hyundai as a frontrunner in the real-world deployment of sustainable mobility solutions.
Advancing Hydrogen Through Dialogue and Strategy
Hyundai’s leadership team actively engaged in high-level sessions on industry decarbonisation, energy efficiency, and future fuels. These dialogues focused on integrating hydrogen into global energy systems and building a robust value chain.
Ken Ramirez, Head of Hyundai’s Energy & Hydrogen Business Division, underscored hydrogen’s transformative role, stating, “Hydrogen plays a central role in enhancing energy resilience and driving industrial innovation. It has the power to decarbonise industries and reshape the global energy mix.”
The company emphasised that hydrogen is not only about cleaner vehicles but also about powering industries, improving energy storage, and creating more competitive low-carbon economies.
The HTWO Advantage
At the core of Hyundai’s strategy is its HTWO brand, which builds on nearly 30 years of fuel cell research and innovation. HTWO provides scalable hydrogen solutions for multiple applications, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles and industrial systems. Through HTWO, Hyundai is driving the development of a global hydrogen ecosystem that can address diverse needs across mobility, logistics, and energy sectors.
Policy and Infrastructure Push
A key message at CEM16 was Hyundai’s call for standardised global certification frameworks for hydrogen, alongside greater investment in hydrogen infrastructure such as refuelling stations and production facilities. By aligning policy and industry efforts, Hyundai believes hydrogen adoption can scale faster, enabling nations to achieve their net-zero commitments while boosting energy security.
Real-World Application at CEM16
The NEXO FCEV fleet deployment symbolised Hyundai’s commitment to putting hydrogen technology into action. Delegates experienced zero-emission travel during the event, reinforcing hydrogen’s reliability, practicality, and premium user experience. Vehicles carried custom branding and brochures highlighting Hyundai’s hydrogen journey, further raising awareness among global leaders.
Paving the Way for a Hydrogen Future
Hyundai Motor Group’s participation at CEM16 underscores its long-term vision: creating a cleaner, more resilient energy future powered by hydrogen. With its deep expertise, strong industrial partnerships, and pioneering vehicles like the NEXO, Hyundai is positioning itself not only as an automaker but also as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.