Motional and Hyundai team up to build IONIQ 5 robotaxi in Singapore
Hyundai Motor Group and Motional, the Aptiv-Hyundai joint venture, have announced their collaboration to develop production-ready versions of the all-electric IONIQ 5 robotaxi. The robotaxis will be built at Hyundai Motor Group’s new innovation center in Singapore, known as the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS).
Bringing Autonomous Vehicles to Life
Motional, the autonomous vehicle (AV) company, plans to deploy the IONIQ 5 robotaxis as part of its commercial service in the U.S. starting in 2024. The vehicles are currently undergoing testing and validation, with the first models already in Singapore.
Integration of Driverless Technology
The production vehicles will differ from the prototype versions as they will have all the necessary driverless technology, including hardware and software, fully integrated on the assembly line. This integration ensures optimal performance and safety for passengers.
Meeting Safety Standards
The production vehicles are certified under the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), ensuring they meet minimum design and construction requirements for passenger safety. Unlike the prototype models, the IONIQ 5 robotaxis will be equipped with a steering wheel and pedals for human intervention if needed.
Singapore as an Ideal Location
Singapore serves as an ideal production location for Motional due to Hyundai’s existing assembly of IONIQ 5 commercial vehicles in the country. The HMGICS provides advanced manufacturing facilities, testing capabilities, and a calibration center to support AV production. The collaboration between Motional and Hyundai will involve on-site assistance with production, diagnostics, software development, calibration, and validation.
Expanding into International Markets
While Motional currently focuses on the U.S. market, the company has expressed interest in expanding internationally. Singapore’s structured streets, compact size, strict regulations, and government support for AVs make it an attractive potential market for AV companies.
This partnership between Motional and Hyundai brings us closer to a future where autonomous robotaxis become a reality, revolutionizing the way we travel and shaping the transportation industry.