Hyundai Motor Group, in collaboration with Enowa, the energy and water arm of NEOM, has completed a landmark hydrogen mobility trial in Trojena, a high-altitude area within the futuristic NEOM development in northwest Saudi Arabia. This trial marks the first deployment of hydrogen-powered vehicles in mountainous terrain, showcasing the potential of clean mobility solutions in challenging environments.
The Group’s UNIVERSE Fuel Cell electric coach bus was tested on steep inclines of up to 24% and at elevations reaching 2,080 meters. This simulated real-world passenger transport between NEOM’s upcoming central business district and Trojena, validating the performance and feasibility of hydrogen vehicles in elevated, rugged topographies.
This initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September 2024 with NEOM’s Mobility sector, aiming to accelerate the integration of next-generation, zero-emission transportation systems within the city. A key enabler of this trial was the installation of the region’s first hydrogen refueling station by Enowa, which supported vehicle operations for VIP transport between October and December 2024.
The successful completion of this trial is a significant stride toward Saudi Vision 2030, aligning with national goals of fostering a diversified, green economy. Hyundai and NEOM plan to deepen their collaboration to deliver scalable and sustainable mobility solutions across the region.
To document the project, Hyundai, NEOM, and Enowa released a video featuring the UNIVERSE bus navigating Trojena’s mountainous roads, accompanied by interviews with project stakeholders, further emphasizing their joint vision for a decarbonized future.
Hyundai’s presence in Saudi Arabia dates back to its early hydrogen innovations in the 1990s. Today, through its dedicated hydrogen platform HTWO, the Group continues to push global energy transition efforts by offering full-spectrum hydrogen solutions—from production to application—fostering global partnerships and investment in a cleaner, hydrogen-powered future.
