Hyundai Motor Group Trials Hydrogen Mobility in NEOM
Hyundai Motor Group, in partnership with Enowa NEOM’s energy and water subsidiary has successfully completed a groundbreaking hydrogen mobility trial in Trojena, a mountainous region of NEOM. This marks the first deployment of hydrogen-powered vehicles in high-altitude environments, demonstrating the Group’s continued leadership in sustainable mobility.
As part of the trial, Hyundai operated its UNIVERSE hydrogen fuel cell electric coach bus on steep and elevated terrain. The route included gradients of up to 24 percent and altitudes reaching 2,080 meters. Designed to simulate passenger transport from NEOM’s future core district to Trojena, the test validated both vehicle performance and the practicality of hydrogen mobility in challenging real-world conditions.
This milestone builds on the memorandum of understanding signed with NEOM’s Mobility sector in September 2024. The agreement focuses on exploring next-generation zero-emission mobility options for NEOM. Thanks to Enowa’s recent installation of the region’s first hydrogen refueling station, the Group was able to conduct VIP transport operations with the UNIVERSE bus from October to December 2024.
Driving Forward Saudi Vision 2030 Through Hydrogen Mobility
This achievement not only highlights Hyundai’s technological capabilities but also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions under Vision 2030. By successfully testing hydrogen-powered transport in extreme conditions, the project aligns with the Kingdom’s goal to diversify its economy and develop sustainable industries. It further strengthens Hyundai’s longstanding commitment to hydrogen innovation, which began with early R&D efforts in the 1990s.
Additionally, this collaboration emphasizes Hyundai and NEOM’s shared dedication to sustainability. Their joint efforts are helping to create a cleaner transport ecosystem and demonstrating how hydrogen fuel can support decarbonization goals. As the world pivots toward green solutions, projects like this underscore the viability of hydrogen in multiple terrains and use cases.
The availability of hydrogen infrastructure made possible through Enowa’s pioneering work played a crucial role in the trial’s success. With continued collaboration, Hyundai and NEOM aim to scale these efforts to support larger applications in the near future.
HTWO: Hyundai’s Platform for a Hydrogen-Powered Future
The hydrogen mobility trial also reflects the vision behind Hyundai’s dedicated hydrogen brand and platform, HTWO. With expertise spanning hydrogen production, storage, and application, HTWO is designed to accelerate the global energy transition. It also serves as a collaborative hub, inviting partners, investors, and innovators to contribute to the hydrogen economy.
Moreover, Hyundai captured this successful trial in a short film, featuring footage of the UNIVERSE Fuel Cell bus navigating Trojena’s rugged terrain. The video includes interviews with project partners and further showcases the Group’s intent to deliver real-world, zero-emission mobility solutions in diverse environments.
Looking ahead, Hyundai Motor Group and NEOM plan to expand their cooperation to advance hydrogen-based transport. Their continued efforts are expected to shape the future of sustainable mobility in Saudi Arabia and beyond, contributing meaningfully to regional and global climate goals.
