At Bauma Munich 2025, HD Hyundai Construction Equipment President and CEO Cheol-gon Choi shared the company’s growth plans as it prepares for a rebound in the global construction market.
Choi told Construction Briefing that Hyundai is upgrading its manufacturing facilities in South Korea and making large investments in production, research and development, and its global dealer network.
“It’s not just about producing more machines,” Choi said. “We want to make smarter machines with better technology.”
Hyundai Construction Equipment (Hyundai CE) is part of HD Hyundai and works closely with its sister company Develon. Choi said this partnership gives the company a major advantage. By sharing technology and resources, Hyundai CE hopes to stay competitive against lower-cost equipment makers from China.
“We are solving these challenges by improving quality and increasing productivity,” Choi said.
Since HD Hyundai acquired Develon, the two companies have made big changes. Around 60% of senior managers have been exchanged, and they have combined their purchasing departments. Technology development is now handled by a single team under HD Hyundai XiteSolution.
Hyundai is also following a key trend in the industry by expanding its line of compact machines. New models include mini excavators, compact loaders, and skid steer loaders.
In terms of alternative energy, Hyundai CE is exploring both electric and hydrogen-powered solutions. One of its major projects is a 15-tonne hydrogen-powered wheeled excavator, the HW155H. But there are challenges, especially around how to store and transport hydrogen safely.
“The biggest issue is how to deliver hydrogen fuel,” Choi said. Due to local rules in Munich, Hyundai was not allowed to run a live demonstration at Bauma.
Hyundai is also developing hybrid systems that could let users switch between hydrogen and diesel. In addition, the company is continuing its work on fully electric equipment.
