Hydrogen Supply
Creating Energy Flow Across the Hydrogen Ecosystem
Hyundai connects every stage of hydrogen storage, transportation, and refueling to seamlessly link
supply and demand, delivering hydrogen wherever it is needed, efficiently and reliably.
Through
diverse storage and transportation technologies, we expand how hydrogen can move and be used, while
strengthening infrastructure with innovative refueling solutions that make hydrogen more accessible
and
convenient.
Storage
Tailored Hydrogen Storage
Solutions for Diverse Applications
Hydrogen occupies a large volume in its gaseous state, but its energy density can be significantly increased through advanced storage technologies. Hyundai is developing technologies that enable hydrogen to be stored efficiently and delivered reliably, supporting long-distance transport and a wide range of applications.
While compressed gas storage is already widely commercialized through established infrastructure, liquid and solid-state storage technologies continue to evolve to unlock the advantages of higher energy density.
Using high-pressure compression technology, hydrogen is stored at pressures of up to 700 bar, significantly improving space efficiency. This enables more hydrogen to be stored within a limited volume, making it the most widely used storage method for hydrogen mobility applications. Hydrogen stored in high-pressure tanks is delivered to refueling stations via tube trailers.
- Key Advantages : Commercially mature and widely adopted
- Applications : Passenger fuel cell vehicles and commercial vehicles
- Storage Conditions
- 350 bar / 700 bar Ambient Temperature, High Pressure
- Storage Density
- 40.2 kilograms per cubic meter *at 700 bar, 15°C
- Operating Pressure
- 350 bar / 700 bar High Pressure
By cooling hydrogen to approximately minus 253 degrees Celsius, it can be liquefied and stored at a significantly higher volumetric density. The substantial reduction in volume compared with gaseous hydrogen makes liquid hydrogen suitable for long-distance, large-scale transportation.
- Key Advantages : Enables high-capacity, high-speed fueling (up to 400 kilograms per hour class)
- Applications : Heavy-duty trucks, rail, marine vessels, and aviation
- Storage Conditions
- minus 245 degrees Celsius Cryogenic Temperature, Low Pressure
- Storage Density
- 60 kilograms per cubic meter
- Operating Pressure
- approximately 5 to 19 bar Low Pressure
Solid-state hydrogen storage improves safety and volumetric energy density by storing hydrogen within solid materials such as metal hydrides through adsorption or chemical bonding. Offering the highest volumetric energy density among hydrogen storage technologies, it can be incorporated into container- or cartridge-based storage systems, expanding its potential for applications such as counterweight construction equipment and submarines.
- Key Advantages : High safety, high weight, low storage pressure, compact design potential
- Applications : Construction equipment, submarines, and stationary hydrogen energy storage systems (HESS)
- Storage Conditions
- Solid-state storage Ambient Temperature, Low Pressure
- Storage Density
- up to 150 kilograms per cubic meter
- Operating Pressure
- approximately 1 to 60 bar Low Pressure
Transportation
Low-Carbon Energy Transportation and Logistics Solutions
Leveraging Hyundai Glovis' extensive logistics expertise, Hyundai is advancing low-carbon transportation solutions across the hydrogen ecosystem. Building on decades of experience in LNG and LPG shipping, we are preparing for the future transport of liquefied hydrogen, ammonia, and liquefied CO₂ while expanding low-carbon logistics services across domestic and international operations.
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Low-Carbon Energy
Maritime TransportExpansion of LNG and LPG maritime transport and future maritime transport of liquefied hydrogen, ammonia, LCO₂, etc.
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Overseas Low-Carbon Logistics Services
Providing low-carbon logistics services in North America through participation in NorCAL ZERO in the California region.
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Low-Carbon Energy
Inland TransportHydrogen Land Transport
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Domestic Low-Carbon Logistics Services
Providing low-carbon logistics services centered on
major domestic hubs (Group affiliates' factories and business sites)
Hyundai's Low-Carbon Logistics Service Strengths
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Transportation Expertise-Based Services
- Providing customized services by leveraging our capabilities in related areas such as inland and maritime transportation and storage
- Providing efficient transportation services through hydrogen supply chain optimization
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Global Logistics Network
- Our extensive network of domestic and international hubs enables the development of efficient hydrogen supply chains worldwide, enhancing reliability, responsiveness, and operational accuracy.
Low-Carbon Logistics Service Process
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Step 1
Low-Carbon Energy Shipments
Overseas low-carbon Energy Shipment
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Step 2
Low-Carbon Energy Maritime Transport
Transportation of low-carbon energy sources via low-carbon fuel vessels
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Step 3
Low-Carbon Energy Land Transport
Domestic transportation of low-carbon energy between hubs and users
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Step 4
Low-Carbon Logistics
Providing low-carbon logistics services through the use of low-carbon transportation methods
Refueling
Expanding Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure Through Tailored Solutions
A robust refueling network is essential to accelerating the hydrogen economy. Hyundai develops hydrogen refueling solutions tailored to diverse operating environments, site conditions, and demand profiles, delivering greater convenience, operational efficiency, and scalability.
Core Infrastructure of the Hydrogen Ecosystem
Stationary-type HRS
Stationary-type Hydrogen Refueling Station
Hydrogen is compressed, cooled through a heat exchanger inside the dispenser, and delivered to a wide range of hydrogen-powered mobility solutions, including passenger vehicles, trucks, buses, and trams. Hyundai Rotem's hydrogen dispenser complies with international fueling standards and currently supports fueling rates of up to 60 g/s. Hyundai is also developing fast refueling technology capable of delivering up to 300 g/s.
Key Advantages
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Scalable Foundation for Hydrogen Mobility
Deployed at key locations such as highways, logistics hubs, and depots, stationary hydrogen refueling stations serve as essential infrastructure for the expansion of hydrogen mobility.
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High Operational Efficiency Through Fast Refueling
Short refueling times of approximately 5 minutesnote 1 for fuel cell electric passenger vehicles and 20 minutesnote 2 for commercial vehicles maximize vehicle utilization and operational efficiency.
1) Based on a hydrogen fill of 6.7 kg and a final state of charge of 95%
2) Based on a hydrogen fill of 25 kg and a final state of charge of 95% -
Reliable Supply for High-Volume, High-Demand Applications
Designed to support large-scale hydrogen consumption, these stations provide a stable and reliable supply for a wide range of mobility applications, including buses and heavy-duty trucks.
Key Components of a Stationary Hydrogen Refueling Station
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Utilizes hydrogen produced on-site through reformers or electrolysis units and receives externally supplied hydrogen via tube trailers and pipelines
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Pressurizes low-pressure hydrogen to the required level for vehicle refueling
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Holds compressed hydrogen safely until dispensing
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Cools hydrogen before dispensing to prevent temperature rise and ensure safe refueling
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Controls the required amount, pressure, and temperature for each mobility type and refueling hydrogen into the mobility
Bringing Refueling Directly to Demand
Mobile-type HRS
H2 Moving Station
H2 Moving Station is a fully integrated hydrogen refueling solution mounted on a truck or large trailer, combining key components such as hydrogen compressors, storage tanks, cooling systems, and dispensers. Designed for flexibility, it can be deployed wherever hydrogen is needed, helping expand infrastructure in areas where fixed stations are impractical and supporting the development of emerging demand.
Key Advantages
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Supporting Early Demand Development
Deployed first in areas where stationary hydrogen refueling stations are difficult to establish, mobile hydrogen refueling stations help support the development of early hydrogen mobility demand.
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Reducing Congestion at High-Demand Stations
By supplementing existing refueling infrastructure, mobile stations help alleviate waiting times and improve accessibility in high-demand urban areas.
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Flexible Deployment in Space-Constrained Locations
Their compact footprint enables installation in narrow sites and underutilized spaces where stationary stations may be difficult to develop.
Types
- Key Components
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Tractor +
Low-Floor Trailer Wing Body - Net Occupied Area*
- Approx. 42 m2square meters
- Refueling Pressure
- 700 bar
- Number of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles Refueled per Hour
- 5 NEXO units/hour
- Hydrogen Dispensed per Vehicle**
- Up to 4.5 kg
※ Net Occupied Area: Refers to the area of the mobile charging station facilities; excludes
ancillary facilities such as on-site connection facilities, T/T connection, and office
management
buildings.
* Based on a 4.5 kg hydrogen fill and a final state of charge of 95%
(Hyundai NEXO)
A Modular Refueling Solution Designed for Space Efficiency
Packaged-type HRS
Packaged-type Hydrogen Refueling Station
Currently under development by Hyundai Motor Company and Hyundai Rotem, the Packaged Hydrogen Currently under development by Hyundai Motor Company and Hyundai Rotem, the Packaged-type Hydrogen Refueling Station is a modular solution that packages core refueling equipment into containerized units. By addressing the challenges of conventional stationary stations, such as high deployment of hydrogen refueling infrastructure through a simpler and more space-efficient design.
Key Advantages
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Lower Construction Costs
Containerized modularization reduces civil engineering and construction costs by approximately 33%.
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Faster Deployment and Relocation
Modules can be quickly transported, installed, and relocated using standard crane operations.
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Space-Efficient Design
Requires up to 40% less installation space than conventional station designs.
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Shorter installation time
Reduces installation time by an average of 2.5 months, from 3.5 months to just 1 month.
Types
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Small-Scale
- Target Vehicles
- Passenger vehicles (NEXO)
- Hydrogen Dispensed per Vehicle
- Up to 5 kg
- Refueling Capacity
- 6 NEXO units/hour
* Based on a 5.0 kg hydrogen fill and
a final state of charge of 95% (Hyundai NEXO) -
Medium/Large-Scale
- Target Vehicles
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Commercial Vehicles
(Bus/Truck) *Passenger vehicle refueling available - Hydrogen Dispensed per Vehicle
- Up to 25kg
- Refueling Capacity
-
Approximately
2 commercial vehicles/hour
* Based on a 25 kg hydrogen fill and a final state of charge of 95%
(Hyundai ELEC CITY Fuel Cell Bus)
※ Modules can be configured horizontally or vertically and expanded in parallel to increase both capacity and the number of dispensers.
Automated Refueling Robot for Hydrogen Vehicles
Hydrogen Electric Vehicle Automatic Charging Robot
Automatic Charging Robot-Hydrogen (ACR-H)
ACR-H is an automated refueling robot designed to provide a convenient, 24/7 hydrogen refueling experience. Powered by advanced AI technology, it automates the entire process from vehicle recognition to hydrogen refueling. Currently under development, ACR-H is designed to enhance operational efficiency through real-time remote monitoring and enable stable, around-the-clock operation.
Key Advantages
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Advanced Vision AI Technology
Identifies vehicle type, license plate information, and parking position, while precisely detecting the location and angle of the vehicle's refueling port.
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High-Precision Control Technology
Utilizes force and torque sensors to accurately and reliably connect the refueling nozzle to the vehicle's refueling port.
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International Standard-Based Safety Design
Built on internationally recognized safety standards, it delivers reliable and safe operation throughout the entire refueling process.
Convenient Hydrogen Module Exchange System
Module Exchange-type HRS
Swappable Hydrogen Storage System
The Swappable Hydrogen Storage System utilizes a tank module exchange approach, allowing hydrogen to be supplied without dedicated refueling facilities. Currently under development, it is an innovative solution designed to overcome the challenges of expanding hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
Key Advantages
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Infrastructure-Independent Scalability
Enables rapid deployment and expansion without the need for dedicated refueling infrastructure.
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Efficient Hydrogen Supply Through Module Exchange
A simple tank module exchange process minimizes downtime and enhances operational efficiency.
Specifications
For Fuel Cell Electric Trucks
- Hydrogen Storage Capacity
- 48.15kg
- Hydrogen Tank Specifications
- 1,179.3 liters diameter 620 millimeters, length 2,020 millimeters, 3 units
For Mobile Generators
- Hydrogen Storage Capacity
- 28.6kg
- Hydrogen Tank Specifications
- 700.0 liters diameter 445 millimeters, length 1,850 millimeters, 4 units
Operating Pressure
- High-Pressure Hydrogen Storage
- 700 bar
System Exchange Method
Mobile Generator Application
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The empty hydrogen storage tank module is removed using a crane.
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The crane's rotating arm transfers the tank module away from the system.
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The refilled hydrogen storage tank module is lifted into place and reinstalled.
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Hydrogen supply to the fuel cell system is restored via a quick-connect interface.
Business
Hydrogen Infrastructure Expansion
FAQ
Questions About Hydrogen Supply
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In its gaseous state, hydrogen has a low density per unit volume, requiring extremely large storage tanks to store it as a gas. Therefore, processes to reduce its volume are necessary for storing large quantities of hydrogen, such as compressing it to high pressure or cooling it to convert it into a liquid state.
Hydrogen can be stored in various ways as follows, enabling easy storage and long-distance/large-volume energy transport.
- Compressed in gaseous state: Hydrogen gas is compressed to pressures exceeding 700 times atmospheric pressure. This is the most common storage method currently used for hydrogen vehicles and industrial hydrogen. Compared to other storage methods like liquefaction or solid storage, it has a lower density per unit volume and requires significant energy consumption for compression.
- Liquefaction: Hydrogen is cooled to an ultra-low temperature of -253°C to store it as a liquid. This allows direct use of hydrogen without chemical conversion. Although energy is consumed during the liquefaction process, it is advantageous for long-distance/large-volume transportation.
- Conversion: Hydrogen can also be stored by combining it with other substances. Representative methods include synthesizing it into liquid chemicals like ammonia (NH3) or liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC). This method leverages existing transportation infrastructure and offers advantages for large-scale maritime and land transport.
- Solid: This method stores hydrogen by adsorbing it onto solid materials or chemically binding it. It possesses a higher volumetric density than gas compression or liquefaction methods, and despite its small volume, it is heavy, making it suitable for use in submarines or drilling rigs.
- Natural terrain utilization storage: This method utilizes natural cavities like salt domes or depleted gas fields. Developed to address seasonal and temporary spikes in energy demand and enhance energy security, it is recognized as the most economical approach for storing large volumes of hydrogen within existing natural environments.
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As the lightest element in the universe, hydrogen rapidly disperses into the air in the event of a leak. However, hydrogen vehicles such as the NEXO are equipped with a variety of advanced safety systems designed to minimize potential risks associated with hydrogen.
The NEXO’s hydrogen storage system is designed to maintain structural integrity even in the event of a collision or an external fire. In addition, hydrogen detection sensors and a real-time monitoring system continuously monitor fuel levels and pressure changes to proactively prevent accidents caused by hydrogen leaks. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a safety valve that rapidly releases hydrogen into the atmosphere if the temperature around the hydrogen tank rises excessively.
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Mobile Hydrogen Refueling Stations
Mobile hydrogen refueling stations can be classified into the following three types according to their operating method. The most suitable method is selected based on site conditions, the urban environment, and operational objectives.
1) On-Site Production and Supply Integration
A mobile hydrogen refueling station is deployed at a hydrogen production site, with hydrogen produced on site supplied directly to the station through a pipeline. An example is the Seongnam Water Purification Plant, where green hydrogen produced on site is supplied to a mobile hydrogen refueling station for vehicle refueling.2) Tube Trailer-Linked Method
A tube trailer—a storage unit for transporting gaseous hydrogen—is stationed at the location where the mobile hydrogen refueling station is installed to supply hydrogen. Once the stored hydrogen is depleted through refueling, the tube trailer is replaced with a fully charged trailer, replenishing the hydrogen supply on site.3) Mobile Supply from a Hydrogen Dispatch Center
The mobile hydrogen refueling station vehicle travels directly to a hydrogen dispatch center to receive hydrogen, then returns to its original station location. This enables refueling services and hydrogen replenishment to be carried out in parallel.Swappable Hydrogen Storage System
A swappable hydrogen storage system is a hydrogen supply system in which a hydrogen-filled tank module is removed from a vehicle and replaced as a complete unit. Instead of refueling hydrogen in the same way that gasoline is filled at a service station, hydrogen is replenished by exchanging the pre-filled tank module. However, regulatory exemptions through a regulatory sandbox are required to enable module refueling.
Advantages over conventional refueling methods are as follows:
1) Overcoming refueling infrastructure constraints: Areas without hydrogen refueling stations can be served with exchange stations alone.
2) Minimizing operational downtime: Vehicles can resume operation immediately through module replacement, without waiting for refueling.
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Hydrogen refueling stations in Korea are operated under a multi-layered safety management system.
1) Safety Management at the Installation Stage
Hydrogen refueling stations are equipped with safety devices such as gas detectors*, flame detectors**, and safety valves***. In the event of a gas leak or fire, the system is designed to initiate an immediate shutdown. Emergency events are also immediately transmitted to the central monitoring and control system for response.
*Gas detector: If the hydrogen concentration exceeds a specified level—set at one-quarter of the lower explosive limit—the detector is activated immediately, even without a flame, and shuts down the refueling equipment. This helps prevent accidents at the hydrogen-leak stage before they can lead to an explosion.
**Flame detector: Detects flames generated by fires or explosions by sensing ultraviolet and infrared radiation emitted from the flame.
***Safety valve: Automatically opens when pressure exceeds the allowable limit, relieving excess pressure to prevent equipment damage and secondary accidents caused by explosions.
2) Safety Management During Construction and Operation
From the construction stage, hydrogen refueling stations undergo safety impact assessments, technical reviews, and interim and final installation inspections conducted and certified by the Korea Gas Safety Corporation (KGS). After operations begin, regular gas-leak and safety inspections are conducted on a monthly, semiannual, and annual basis. In addition, each station carries out routine, day-to-day safety management.
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No. Hyundai supports the development and operation of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, while hydrogen supply is primarily handled by specialized energy companies.
Within Hyundai Motor Group, hydrogen supply-related businesses include the following:
1) Hyundai Steel purifies by-product hydrogen produced at its Dangjin plant and supplies it to the Hynet Dangjin Hydrogen Dispatch Center. The hydrogen is then delivered to nearby hydrogen refueling stations using tube trailers.
2) Hyundai Rotem supplies reformers that produce hydrogen by breaking down methane from natural gas or biogas. This business supports on-site hydrogen production and supply.
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