The energy and chemicals company Aramco, and Gaussin, a logistics provider, have started a partnership in the hydrogen vehicles business.
The agreement between Aramco and Gaussin aims to establish a modern manufacturing facility for hydrogen-powered vehicles in Saudi Arabia. As a first step, the two partners will study the feasibility of a manufacturing facility and a hydrogen distribution business to serve the Middle East region.
Furthermore, the two companies agreed that Aramco’s Advanced Innovation Center (LAB7) will be closely involved in Gaussin’s development of hydrogen-powered vehicles and the development of a remotely controlled and autonomous hydrogen racing truck.
Via LAB7 Aramco’s composite materials can be integrated into Gaussin’s existing products to reduce the weight, energy consumption and cost of these vehicles.
Christophe Gaussin, CEO of Gaussin, was personally invited to participate in the delegation of French CEOs accompanying French President Emmanuel Macron on his state visit from 2-4 December to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
The business delegation included organisations such as Airbus, Ardian, Egis, Air Liquide, Engie, GL events, HSBC and EDF, according to a statement.
Christophe Gaussin commented that the Middle East is a key region for Gaussin and Saudi Arabia is crucial to transfer the company’s technologies and “know-how” there.
In addition, Aramco SVP of Technical Services, Ahmad Al-Sa’adi stated, “The agreement is the start of a collaboration to advance and promote hydrogen as a low carbon transportation fuel. It also allows us to advance economic growth and sustainability in the Kingdom as part of the Namaat industrial investment program.”
