PHINIA Inc., a leader in premium fuel systems, electrical systems, and aftermarket products, has announced a strategic partnership with South Korean original equipment manufacturer (OEM), KG Mobility (KGM), to design, develop, and supply a 2.2-litre H₂ internal combustion engine (H2ICE). The partnership aims to provide a zero-carbon fuel alternative to an existing KGM diesel engine while preserving the performance, durability, and range essential for commercial and industrial applications.

Under the partnership, PHINIA will design a tailored H2ICE system and supply critical H₂-specific control systems and components, including its innovative DI-CHG10 fuel injector, engine control unit (ECU), and rail system. KGM, formerly known as SsangYong Motor Company, will integrate its in-house diesel engine technology with PHINIA’s fuel injection equipment and ECU technology to drive the project forward.

As the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable alternative fuels gains traction, H2ICE technology offers a seamless transition for industries reliant on internal combustion engines. It enables rapid refueling and cost-effective implementation using existing infrastructure while meeting stringent NO_x emission regulations and achieving diesel-like performance. In applications where battery power may not be suitable, H2ICE technology has the potential to reshape the landscape of commercial and industrial mobility.

Kwon Yong-Il, Head of Research & Development, KGM, commented, "At KGM, we are committed to pioneering innovative mobility solutions that drive sustainability without compromising on performance. This partnership with PHINIA allows us to leverage their expertise in developing H2ICE systems, offering a viable zero-carbon alternative for commercial and industrial applications."

This is one of many H₂ combustion projects that PHINIA has embarked on, and the Company is currently involved in many more. In 2024, PHINIA successfully completed a 1,000 km, 12-hr vehicle test using its H2ICE technology and more recently announced a technical partnership with Alpine to support the development of the Alpenglow H₂-powered concept car.

Todd Anderson, PHINIA’s Chief Technology Officer, commented, "This collaboration with KGM represents a big step forward in the H₂-powered future of mobility. Our multiple successful vehicle trials have demonstrated that H2ICE technology is a practical, efficient, and scalable solution for industries looking to decarbonize, and our continued work with automotive OEMs continues to evidence the real-world applications of those tests.”