Hyundai Motor Group announced its 2024 first-half ZER01NE Accelerator program, an open innovation platform to facilitate collaboration between startups and the Group on various projects. This program aims to discover valuable startups and explore the possibilities of strategic use of their innovative technologies.

Startups can apply to one of seven global projects derived by the Group’s internal teams under three key themes: two Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) projects, two Smart Factory projects, and three Environmental·Social·Governance (ESG) projects. Each startup is limited to one specific project.

Theme 1: SDV

• Development of a no-code tool for creating dedicated applications for SDVs.

• Development of business models compatible with PBV (Purpose Built Vehicle) and installment of vehicle interior modification kits.

Theme 2: Smart Factory

• Physical property verification for 3D printing hybrid production methods using dissimilar materials.

• Development of metal 3D printing methods for surface improvement and support reduction.

Theme 3: ESG

• Development of next generation PEM (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) fuel cell tech for AAM (Advanced Air Mobility).

• Development of materials and cell elements for lithium metal batteries.

• Development of next generation CO₂ capturing and mineral carbonation tech.

The Group’s organizations that are responsible for technology developments are directly involved in reviewing and recruiting the applicants for each project. Only registered corporations will be eligible for consideration and can submit their proposal on the official application website from February 19 to March 10. Results will be announced in April.

Selected startups will be provided with a project development budget and could be evaluated for equity investments.

Since the Group introduced the ZER01NE Accelerator in 2018, 150 teams from 11 affiliates of the Group and 177 startups have worked together on 128 collaborative projects. This has led to 96 startups successfully receiving equity investments from the Group.

Last year, three global startups were selected and are currently engaged in collaborative projects focused on lithium metal battery, teleoperation, and cold-spray metal 3D printing solutions.