Hyundai, LG strengthen extend collaboration to EV parts

Kia EV9

Hyundai Motor Group has reportedly equipped its electric vehicles (EVs) with motor parts supplied by LG Group, the first time the automaker has sourced EV components from a major Korea company other than its affiliate Hyundai Mobis Co.

Industry sources revealed on Tuesday that Kia Corp. outfitted its large electric sport utility vehicle, the EV9, with motor parts from LG Magna e-Powertrain Co. The motor, often referred to as the “heart” of EVs, consists of a stator - an electromagnet created by winding copper wire - and a rotor, which acts as a permanent magnet. LG Magna supplies the stator for the Kia EV9, and Hyundai is also considering using LG Magna motor parts in other EV models, including the Ioniq. Hyundai Motor Group is also mulling whether to equip its new cars for the second half of 2024 with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) developed by LG Electronics.

[Courtesy of LG Magna e-Powertrain Co.]

The collaboration between the two groups on motor parts builds on their long-standing cooperative relationship in batteries, in-vehicle infotainment systems, displays, and camera modules.

“Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung is actively seeking to collaborate with capable parts suppliers to grow Korea’s EV ecosystem,” a senior industry executive said, adding that the move also aligns with LG Group‘s aim to expand its automotive electronics business.

Selling over 7 million new cars annually and ranked as a global top-three company, Hyundai Motor Group has emerged as a major buyer capable of purchasing parts in bulk. While enhancing the capabilities of its internal parts affiliates such as Hyundai Mobis, the group plans to establish a more diverse and competitive parts ecosystem both within Korea and overseas.

LG Magna declined to confirm details, citing the company’s policy on non-disclosure of individual agreements.