Seoul: Samsung Electronics Co. announced a partnership with Hyundai Motor Co. to integrate fifth-generation (5G) private network solutions into Hyundai's advanced vehicle manufacturing facilities.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the two firms recently completed an end-to-end Reduced Capability (RedCap) trial over a private 5G network, set to be showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Spain.
A private 5G network is a dedicated communication system that utilizes separate communication frequency bands for internal use within a company or specific area. RedCap technology simplifies 5G connectivity for compact Internet of Things (IoT) devices by reducing complexity and optimizing power efficiency while maintaining necessary data speeds. This test builds on Samsung Electronics' deployment of a private 5G network at Hyundai's key manufacturing facility in October.
The collaboration aims to transform Hyundai Motor's Ulsan Plant, the world's largest automobile plant with a daily production average of 6,000 vehicles, into a smart factory. Hyundai plans to expand RedCap private 5G networks to its electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing facilities, with operations starting in the first half of 2026.
Simon Lee, vice president and head of the network business at Samsung Electronics, stated, "The recent collaboration with Hyundai Motor represents how the two leaders in their respective industries can creatively drive business innovation and unlock new real use cases by merging best-in-class expertise." He added that Samsung's RedCap-powered private 5G network solutions would open up more possibilities for various sectors.
This partnership aligns with broader efforts by Samsung Group and Hyundai Motor Group to expand collaboration in areas like EV batteries, mobility, information technology, and robotics. The cooperation began in June 2023, when Samsung Electronics announced plans to supply its latest automotive processor, the Exynos Auto V920, for Hyundai's next-generation in-vehicle infotainment systems.
Subsequently, a 2024 agreement was made to integrate Samsung's SmartThings IoT platform with Hyundai's software-defined vehicles, enhancing connectivity and smart vehicle functions. In late 2023, Samsung SDI secured a seven-year contract to supply batteries for Hyundai's EVs destined for European production from 2026 to 2032, marking the first battery supply contract between the two companies.
Further expanding their partnership, Samsung SDI and Hyundai Motor signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly develop robot-specific batteries. Additionally, Hyundai plans to equip its luxury SUV, the GV90, with Samsung SDI's prismatic batteries.