Hyundai Motor Group Donates High-Tech Recovery Vehicles for South Korean Firefighters

SEOGWIPO, Jul. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – In early 2023, Chung Eui-sun, the chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, directed his executive team to develop a “firefighter recovery vehicle” after learning that only 10 such vehicles existed nationwide, and they were aging rapidly.

Chung suggested utilizing the company’s hydrogen bus technology for this purpose. 

The initiative was sparked by Chung’s visit to the Ulsan North Fire Station in April 2023, where he pledged to develop and donate recovery support vehicles for firefighters to rest during emergencies.

“What else can we do but make cars?” Chung remarked, emphasizing the company’s commitment to supporting first responders.

The event was also attended by SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and Hyosung Group Chairman Cho Hyun-joon, following Chung’s invitation.

After approximately a year of development, the firefighter recovery support vehicle was completed. Each hydrogen bus costs about 630 million won, with an additional 500 million won invested in modifications.

Chung insisted on incorporating feedback from firefighters throughout the design process.

Hyundai Motor held over 10 meetings with the National Fire Agency, integrating firefighters’ opinions into various aspects of the vehicle’s design and construction.

At the handover ceremony last month, Chung expressed his deep respect for firefighters, stating, “We feel profound admiration for the firefighters who rush into dangerous situations without hesitation to protect citizens’ lives. We will continue to provide unwavering support.” 

The recovery support bus is based on Hyundai Motor Group’s Universe Mobile Office hydrogen bus, originally developed as a mass-produced mobile workspace.

The vehicle features a cooking area for hydration and calorie replenishment, 10 individual rest spaces with premium reclining seats, and two focused rest areas where firefighters can lie down. 

The 10 individual seats offer first-class airplane-like comfort, each equipped with power outlets and USB chargers. The rear of the bus contains a sofa and folding table for meetings or additional rest space.

A large TV and soundbar are installed on the wall for viewing videos or conducting on-site briefings. The bus also includes a double-door refrigerator and a water purifier.

Externally, the recovery vehicle can be fitted with a motorized room tent, allowing firefighters to rest comfortably outdoors away from public view.

 

Additional amenities include folding chairs, tables, a portable sink, and massage devices.

The vehicle’s interior uses durable, stain-resistant materials throughout. The cargo area is equipped with a shoe dryer, fire suit hangers, and high-pressure air and water guns for removing contaminants.

The hydrogen bus can be fully charged in 20 minutes and has a maximum range of 635 kilometers on a single charge.

Hyundai Motor Group has donated a total of eight recovery support vehicles to various regions across South Korea, including North Gyeongsang, Gangwon, Incheon, North Jeolla, South Chungcheong, Ulsan, and Jeju, with plans to increase donations in the future. 

Firefighters often need to remain at the scene for extended periods during major emergencies such as factory fires or forest fires.

Despite risking their lives to combat flames, they frequently lack proper rest areas and have been known to sleep on the ground.

The hydrogen-powered recovery buses can run for long periods without emitting exhaust gases, providing a clean and comfortable environment for responders.

The Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation, established through a personal donation from Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-Koo, has been providing scholarships to children of deceased or injured firefighters since 2012.

Over the past 12 years, the foundation has supported 2,166 children of firefighters, honoring the sacrifices made by these public servants and emphasizing society’s role in caring for their families.

Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)