South Korean automotive manufacturer KGM (formerly SsangYong) and Phinia Delphi France are to jointly develop hydrogen engines. The collaboration was confirmed last month at KGM’s R+D center in Pyeongtaek, South Korea.
KGM is currently involved in a national project led by South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy. This initiative promotes low-carbon technologies and practices to cut greenhouse gas emissions and support the country’s transition to a carbon-neutral economy. Primarily it aims to develop a 2-liter diesel-based hydrogen engine and vehicle that meets NOx emission regulations and achieves a driving range of over 500km, making it suitable for both industrial and vehicular applications.
The main goal is to combine KGM’s in-house diesel engine technology with Phinia’s fuel injection system and ECU technology. Together the two companies will design a multi-purpose engine and vehicle, and create the foundation for an extended-range electric vehicle, while also conducting ongoing research and development.
A KGM representative said, “Eco-friendly hydrogen engines are a crucial next-generation powertrain technology. The hydrogen engine developed through this collaboration will be applicable not only to vehicles but also to construction and industrial machinery.”
The company has also confirmed the launch of plug-in hybrid technologies, within its existing range, throughout 2025.