In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable transportation, Hyundai Motor Group, in partnership with Enowa — NEOM’s energy and water subsidiary — has completed a landmark hydrogen mobility trial in the high-altitude terrains of Trojena, Saudi Arabia.
The trial featured Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, the UNIVERSE coach bus, navigating steep mountainous roads, reaching altitudes of up to 2,080 meters (6,824 feet) and tackling gradients as steep as 24%. This route simulated travel from NEOM’s future business district to Trojena, proving hydrogen-powered transport can thrive in challenging, real-world environments.
This achievement aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the global mission toward climate neutrality, reinforcing Hyundai’s decades-long commitment to hydrogen innovation, which began in the late 1990s. It also highlights the potential of hydrogen mobility to replace fossil fuel-based passenger transport, even in high-altitude and rugged settings.
The project builds on a September 2024 memorandum of understanding between Hyundai Motor Group and NEOM’s Mobility sector, aimed at developing next-generation zero-emission transport solutions. A critical enabler for this trial was Enowa’s installation of the region’s first hydrogen refueling station, which supported VIP operations of the UNIVERSE Fuel Cell bus in NEOM from October to December last year.
To showcase the success, Hyundai, NEOM, and Enowa released an official video capturing the bus in action across Trojena’s stunning but challenging landscape. This collaborative milestone not only strengthens Hyundai’s position in the hydrogen mobility sector but also marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward a cleaner, hydrogen-powered future.
Through its dedicated hydrogen brand HTWO, Hyundai Motor Group continues to lead the global energy transition — going beyond vehicle manufacturing to foster a complete, sustainable hydrogen ecosystem.
