Hyundai explores collaboration with the Canadian hydrogen energy sector

Hyundai told CBC it is reviewing opportunities to work with Canada's hydrogen energy sector following a recent Canada–South Korea memorandum, and said it has no current plans to open an auto plant in Canada.

Hyundai has told CBC News it is exploring a potential collaboration with Canada's hydrogen energy sector. This announcement comes after Canada and South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in industries including auto and battery manufacturing. A Hyundai spokesperson said the company does not currently plan to open an auto manufacturing plant in Canada but is reviewing a range of opportunities to support Canada's clean-energy transition. The company has continued to invest in hydrogen technology while some competitors have scaled back fuel-cell programs. Key points: - Hyundai is exploring a potential collaboration with the Canadian hydrogen energy sector, the company told CBC News. - Canada and South Korea recently signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on industries including auto and battery manufacturing. - A Hyundai spokesperson said the company has no current plans to open an auto manufacturing plant in Canada. - Hydrogen-fuelled cars have a longer range and can refuel faster than battery electric vehicles, but broader use would require new hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. - Some automakers, including Stellantis and General Motors, have discontinued hydrogen fuel-cell development, while Hyundai has pursued hydrogen vehicles and introduced heavy-duty hydrogen trucks in 2020. - Hyundai and Kia held about 12 per cent of the Canadian market in 2025, with more than 146,000 Hyundai and over 94,000 Kia vehicles sold that year, and Hyundai recalled nearly 1,600 NEXO vehicles in Canada and the U.S. in 2024 over a risk of fuel leaks and potential fires. Summary: Hyundai's statement underscores the company's continued interest in hydrogen as part of its vehicle strategy and follows the bilateral memorandum with Canada. Company officials say they are reviewing collaboration opportunities but have not committed to a Canadian manufacturing presence. Undetermined at this time.