Hyundai and Waymo Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance Autonomous Driving with IONIQ 5
Hyundai Motor Company and Waymo have unveiled a strategic, multi-year partnership today. This collaboration will initially see the integration of Waymo’s sixth-generation fully autonomous technology, known as the Waymo Driver, into Hyundai’s all-electric IONIQ 5 SUV. These vehicles will gradually join the Waymo One fleet.
The IONIQ 5 vehicles destined for the Waymo fleet will be assembled at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America's (HMGMA) new EV manufacturing facility in Georgia. These vehicles will be equipped with Waymo's cutting-edge autonomous technology after assembly. The plan includes producing a significant volume of IONIQ 5s with this technology over several years to bolster the expanding scale of Waymo One. On-road testing of Waymo-enabled IONIQ 5s is scheduled to start by late 2025, with availability to Waymo One users in subsequent years.
"We are excited to partner with Hyundai to advance our mission of becoming the world's most trusted driver," stated Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo. "Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability and impressive electric vehicle roadmap make them an ideal partner as we aim to extend our fully autonomous service to a broader audience."
José Muñoz, president and global COO of Hyundai Motor Company and president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, commented, "Hyundai and Waymo are committed to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and convenience of transportation. The transformative technology from Waymo improves road safety where it operates and makes the IONIQ 5 the perfect vehicle to expand this impact. Our new manufacturing team is geared up to dedicate a substantial number of vehicles to the Waymo One fleet as it grows. This marks the beginning of our partnership, with more collaborative opportunities already under exploration."
Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) Division, recently announced, "We have launched Hyundai Motor Company’s autonomous vehicle foundry business to equip global autonomous driving firms with vehicles that support SAE Level 4 or higher autonomous driving technology. Waymo, a leader in the industry, is our first partner in this new venture."
The Hyundai IONIQ 5, delivered to Waymo, will feature specific autonomous-ready modifications, including redundant hardware and power doors. This award-winning, all-electric vehicle will support extended driving periods on a single charge thanks to its 800-volt system architecture, allowing for some of the industry's fastest charging speeds. Additionally, the IONIQ 5's spacious interior will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride for all passengers.