Hyundai expands R&D presence in Hessen to advance EV innovation and sustainability
Automotive leader opened state-of-the-art Square Campus in Rüsselsheim, Germany, further solidifying its commitment to the European market.
Hyundai Motor Group has expanded its research and development (R&D) activities in Hessen with the opening of its new Square Campus in Rüsselsheim near Frankfurt. The facility is part of the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center (HMETC), which has served as the European R&D hub for Hyundai and KIA since 2003.
The 25,000-square-meter campus is home to more than 400 employees and features cutting-edge laboratories and test infrastructures. Key features of the new facility include Hyundai's largest noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) dynamometer and advanced systems for testing chassis and powertrains.
The site focuses on electric vehicles (EVs), advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment, and electrification technologies. Hyundai aims to develop tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers in Europe and beyond.
The expansion solidifies Hessen's standing as a leading hub for automotive innovation. Sustainability is also a key factor. The Square Campus is a model of sustainability, featuring eco-friendly materials, photovoltaic panels, and state-of-the-art heat pump systems.
Representatives from the Hessen State Energy Agency (LandesEnergieAgentur Hessen) and Hessen Trade & Invest met with Hyundai's planning team in the early stages of the project to discuss preliminary matters and offer support. A recent site visit confirmed that the new facility exemplifies sustainable design and forward-looking collaboration in the EV sector.
Hyundai's German subsidiary, Hyundai Motor Deutschland GmbH, which oversees the group's broader European operations, has been headquartered in Offenbach, near Frankfurt, since 1991.
The Hyundai Motor Group holds a strong global position, ranking third in vehicle sales in 2024 with approximately 7.2 million units sold, following Toyota (10.8 million) and Volkswagen (9 million). The company is part of one of Korea's largest conglomerates, with activities spanning shipbuilding (Hyundai Heavy Industries), shipping (Hyundai Merchant Marine), steel production (Hyundai Steel), logistics (Hyundai Glovis), elevator manufacturing (Hyundai Elevator), and financial services (Hyundai Capital).