South Korea - Hyundai Motor Company, headquartered in Seoul, has agreed to supply a fleet of hydrogen fuel cell-powered waste collection trucks to the Busan City government over the next three years, as the country’s second-largest city continues to transition its public sector fleet to zero-emission vehicles.

To mark the occasion, Hyundai displayed two newly developed hydrogen-powered waste collection trucks, based on its latest Xcient heavy-duty truck platform, at Busan City Hall.

Hyundai has agreed to supply a fleet of 65 hydrogen fuel cell powered waste disposal trucks by 2028, starting with five units by the end of 2025 before volumes are increased up in 2026, as the city government begins to replace its aging fleet of diesel-powered waste disposal trucks.

A Busan City official pointed out that Hyundai’s hydrogen-powered trucks are quieter and produce less vibration than their diesel equivalents, which will significantly improve working conditions for waste collection workers.

A spokesman for Hyundai confirmed his company “will ensure timely production and delivery of the hydrogen waste trucks to support Busan's air quality improvement efforts."