HD Hyundai, a diversified South Korean conglomerate involved in shipbuilding and heavy machinery, has announced its partnership with Google Cloud, the IT division of Google Inc., aimed at fastening its digital evolution through the application of generative artificial intelligence. The partnership aims to integrate generative AI technology into Hyundai’s primary operations, encompassing its renowned shipbuilding and high-performing construction machinery sectors in Korea. Google Cloud plans to offer tailored enterprise solutions such as the Vertex AI platform, facilitating the creation of AI applications specific to these industries.
HD Hyundai, formerly known as Hyundai Heavy Industries Group, is a South Korean conglomerate globally recognized as the largest manufacturer in shipbuilding and heavy industries. With its primary focus on shipbuilding, heavy equipment, and energy, the conglomerate transitioned to a holding company structure in March 2018. Key intermediate holding entities within the structure include HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HD Hyundai XiteSolution, and HD Hyundai Oilbank, each overseeing specific subsidiaries specializing in their respective sectors. Originating as a shipbuilding company in 1972 in a small southeast South Korean fishing village, HD Hyundai has evolved and expanded its operations across related industries. With a workforce exceeding 35,000 employees globally and total assets nearing $59.5 billion (USD), the conglomerate is committed to its core value of “Technology and Quality,” aiming to emerge as the foremost innovative solutions provider across diverse domains.
HD Hyundai and Google Cloud have formed a pioneering alliance, blending automotive expertise with cutting-edge cloud solutions. HD Hyundai specializes in innovative vehicles that integrate advanced technology for a seamless driving experience. Complementing this, Google Cloud, one of the frontrunners in cloud-based solutions, empowers businesses with scalable, secure, and AI-driven capabilities. Together, they aim to revolutionize the automotive landscape by harnessing the potential of cloud technology to redefine mobility, connectivity, and customer experiences.
From January 2024 onwards, the company will place a strong emphasis on prioritizing impactful initiatives. This will involve the development of AI solutions customized to suit the unique requirements of various industries. Additionally, the focus will be on crafting AI-driven platforms aimed at enriching and improving customers’ digital interactions. Another key focus area will involve the training and development of professionals specializing in AI, nurturing a skilled cadre of experts in this field. Hyundai’s construction equipment division took a significant step by initiating a trial of a Generative AI service for their post-sales communication. Teaming up with Google Cloud in July 2023 marked the beginning of this collaboration. Their objective is to craft a comprehensive AI strategy that will pave the way for groundbreaking digital advancements and drive innovation in their business for the foreseeable future.
Establishing an AI Center aimed at crafting tailored generative AI, joining forces with POSCO to delve into smart unmanned technology, and teaming up with Siemens to pioneer AI applications for smart shipyard operations were previous initiatives aimed at enhancing in-house AI capabilities. HD Hyundai reportedly stated, “Combining the vast data we have accumulated over the years with Google Cloud’s generative AI technology will create great synergy. We will actively utilize AI to improve work efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.” Highlighting the significance of this partnership, Philip Moyer, Vice President of global AI Business and Solutions within Google Cloud, will deliver a keynote address during HD Hyundai’s CES 2024 session. The significance of this collaboration is reflected through the inclusion of such a distinguished speaker, illustrating the depth of engagement between the entities involved.