Hyundai Partners with IITs for Battery and Electrification Research

Hyundai Motor Company has announced a strategic partnership with three premier Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)—IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and IIT Madras. This collaboration focuses on advancing research in battery technology and electrification. Hyundai has committed an investment of $7 million over the next five years to support this initiative, showcasing its commitment to innovation and sustainability in India.

Hyundai Center of Excellence (COE)

As part of this collaboration, Hyundai will establish the Hyundai Center of Excellence (COE) at IIT Delhi.

• To lead advancements in battery technology and electrification tailored for the Indian market.
• The COE will function through Hyundai-sponsored projects, fostering academic-industrial synergy.
• The center will undertake joint research, academic-industry cooperation, and facilitate technical and human resource exchanges between South Korean and Indian experts.

Hyundai’s Vision for Innovation

According to Naksup Sung, Head of Research and Development Planning & Coordination Center at Hyundai Motor Group, the COE aims to:

• Build a robust network of academic talent in India.
• Drive innovations that cater to India’s unique automotive requirements.
• Strengthen Hyundai’s position in the Indian market by leveraging local expertise and global knowledge.

Following Honda’s Footsteps

Hyundai's initiative mirrors Honda's recent collaboration with IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay. In September 2024, Honda announced research partnerships to develop AI technologies for driver assistance and automated driving. These efforts aim to enhance Honda's proprietary Cooperative Intelligence (CI), fostering better interaction between machines and people.

While Honda focuses on AI for global applications, Hyundai’s efforts are centered on electrification and battery technology, emphasizing solutions for the Indian automotive ecosystem.