Hyundai Motor Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to jointly develop advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft powered by electrified aviation powertrains.
The agreement, reached at Hyundai Motor and Kia headquarters in Seoul, involves Supernal, Hyundai’s U.S.-based AAM subsidiary, collaborating with KAI on aircraft design for vertical takeoff and landing. Hyundai’s aviation powertrain division will work with KAI to commercialize electric propulsion systems.
The partnership combines Hyundai’s electrification and mass-production expertise with KAI’s aircraft development experience from projects like the T-50, KF-21, and Surion helicopters. KAI has been advancing AAM technologies since 2022, including electric distributed propulsion, flight control software, lightweight materials, and an AI-piloted demonstrator.
Both companies will share technical and human resources, extending cooperation to supply chains, certification processes, and customer networks. They plan to establish a steering committee with working groups and executives to broaden collaboration. KAI’s aviation certification expertise is expected to aid in overcoming global regulatory challenges for AAM commercialization.