Hyundai is constantly looking for ways to improve the range and power of its electric vehicles. With the latest partnership, Hyundai will develop new materials for better performance of electric vehicles.
The Korean automaker has announced a strategic partnership with Toray Industries, a leader in the field of carbon fiber and composite materials.
Toray materials are used in many industries such as automotive and aviation due to their lightness, strength and heat resistance.
For example, Toray is working with California-based Joby Aviation to use carbon fiber in its upcoming electric air taxi. The company has also signed an agreement with German aerospace company Lilium to use carbon fiber composite on its electric five-seater aircraft.
According to Chang Song, president of Hyundai, the company aims to “gain a competitive advantage” with new materials.
“Hyundai Motor Group aims to use this strategic partnership to strengthen its position as a global leader in mobility solutions”– explained Song.
The Korean automaker plans to use lightweight, high-strength materials to improve the electric vehicle's batteries and motors. Joint research and development includes carbon fiber reinforced polymer parts. Hyundai said the new materials partnership will play a “key role in the Group's future mobility strategy.” These materials will be used to improve Hyundai, KIA and probably Genesis electric cars.