Hyundai accelerates Singapore’s EV vision with its innovation centre

Situated in the Jurong Innovation District, this facility is designed to manufacture up to 30,000 EVs annually and serves as a global hub for smart urban mobility solutions. It aligns with Singapore's Manufacturing 2030 strategy and the nation's vision to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by 2040.

Spanning seven storeys and 86,900 sq m, the facility seamlessly integrates into Singapore's smart city ecosystem. It leverages advanced Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics to revolutionise EV production.

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The centre's flexible, cell-based production system replaces traditional conveyor belts, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and enabling rapid adaptation to changing demands. This system also extensively automates the production process, employing over 200 robots to handle around 50% of tasks. As a result, human workers can concentrate on more creative and strategic roles.

Operating as a digital twin Meta-Factory, HMGICS integrates human, robot, and AI roles into a unified digital twin platform. The facility synchronises the virtual and physical worlds in real time, enabling humans and robots to collaborate innovatively. Employees can simulate tasks in the digital virtual space, or metaverse, while robots handle physical components on the production line.

“The more compact nature of facilities such as HMGICS makes it easier to integrate them into local communities, particularly in urban areas with limited space,” says Alpesh Patel, vice president and chief innovation officer at HMGICS.

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“With the help of robotics, AI and IoT, we’ve built a human-centric manufacturing innovation system that can respond to changes in mobility, processes and products with agility and flexibility. These innovations are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and customisation,” he adds.

HMGICS is more than just a production facility; it is a collaborative innovation hub that aligns with Singapore's strategic goals, including the National Hydrogen Strategy. This initiative aims to use 50% hydrogen in the power supply by 2050. The centre's operations are specifically tailored to support these initiatives, contributing to Singapore's aspiration to lead sustainable urban mobility.

In addition to manufacturing, HMGICS focuses on R&D. It is collaborating with local institutions like Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Agency of Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR) to create a tripartite Corporate Lab. This lab accelerates the adoption of new technologies, fostering an open innovation ecosystem that nurtures local talent and incubates future mobility businesses​​.

The centre offers a transformative customer experience, redefining the journey from vehicle customisation to delivery. Customers can personalise their vehicle's exterior and interior configurations online and experience the construction of their customised EVs through a virtual reality tour.

The facility features a distinctive vehicle handover area, ensuring that taking ownership is a memorable experience.

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One of the standout features of HMGICS is the 618m-long rooftop Skytrack, offering a panoramic view of the Jurong Innovation District.

Positioned at an optimal angle, this track is ideal for conducting final quality checks on IONIQ vehicles before they are handed over to their new owners.

The centre also features a futuristic Smart Farm, showcasing sustainable urban growth and educating visitors on modern farming practices.

This advanced farm utilises robotics and automated systems to cultivate nine different crops, supporting Singapore's food self-sufficiency objectives outlined in the "30 by 30" policy.

The harvested produce is supplied to Na Oh, an upscale farm-to-table restaurant renowned for its fresh, locally sourced dishes crafted by award-winning chef Corey Lee.

HMGICS was established as part of Hyundai's strategic vision to promote shared growth. The centre aims to become a global hub for developing future-oriented business models and sustainable production solutions. This goal is pursued through nurturing local talent and building strong relationships with research institutions and universities.

The centre represents a pivotal step in Singapore's path towards a sustainable, EV-driven future. By integrating state-of-the-art technology with innovative business models, HMGICS advances the nation's EV vision and establishes new benchmarks for the global automotive industry.