Hyundai Mobis is intensifying its efforts in material development, laying the groundwork for the next generation of sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. The South Korean automotive supplier is making significant strides in three strategic areas: sustainable materials, innovative materials for mobility, and digital materials enabled by virtual verification. This focused approach is intended to bolster the company’s competitiveness in the face of increasingly stringent global environmental regulations anticipated by 2030.
As the automotive industry evolves, Hyundai Mobis is positioning itself at the forefront of material innovation. The company’s renewed focus on material technology is not just a response to current industry challenges but also a proactive strategy to stay ahead of future regulatory changes and market demands. By developing high-performance, high-efficiency materials, Hyundai Mobis aims to strengthen its role as a leader in the global mobility sector.
Sustainable Materials for a Greener Future
Hyundai Mobis’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its development of materials that align with global environmental regulations. The company is pioneering the use of recycled and bio-based materials in automotive components, a move that not only supports environmental goals but also addresses the rising demand for eco-friendly products in the automotive market.
One of the company’s notable achievements is the development of a vehicle underbody protective cover made from 50% recycled plastic. This innovation surpasses the European Union’s forthcoming regulations, which will require 25% recycled materials in new car plastics by 2030. Hyundai Mobis’s early compliance with these standards reflects its commitment to sustainability and its ability to anticipate and meet future regulatory requirements.
In addition to recycled materials, Hyundai Mobis is also developing over 30 types of new materials for use in components such as cockpit modules, lamps, and airbags. The company is exploring the potential of bio-based materials, including those derived from wood, which offer the dual benefits of reducing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing material durability.
Innovative Materials to Meet Electrification Demands
As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, Hyundai Mobis is advancing the development of innovative materials that reduce reliance on rare metals while enhancing component performance. The company has made significant progress in reducing the nickel content in inductors, a critical component in electric vehicle power systems. By decreasing the nickel content from 50% to around 30%, Hyundai Mobis not only mitigates the impact of volatile raw material prices but also maintains the necessary electromagnetic properties.
The company is also pioneering the development of completely nickel-free materials, a global first in the industry. This innovation is part of Hyundai Mobis’s broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of its electrification and electronic components, including high-speed battery charging technology and advanced sensor coatings for autonomous driving.
Digital Transformation in Material Development
Hyundai Mobis is also investing in the digital transformation of material technologies. By integrating IT with traditional materials science, the company is improving its ability to predict and simulate the properties of materials used in automotive components. This digital approach is complemented by the use of artificial intelligence to explore new materials, potentially revolutionising the way materials are developed.
With a dedicated team of over 100 materials science professionals, Hyundai Mobis is uniquely positioned to lead in the development of new materials. The company’s continued investment in talent and technology underscores its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.
As Hyundai Mobis accelerates its material development initiatives, it is not only preparing for the future of mobility but also contributing to the global effort to create a more sustainable and innovative automotive industry.