SINGAPORE, Jan. 15, 2026 — JIOS Aerogel (JIOS), a global leader in silica aerogel technology, revealed today that its Korean manufacturing licensee has secured a major contract to supply Thermal Blade® thermal runaway barriers for Hyundai and Kia’s next-generation and Purpose Built Vehicle (PBV) models. This achievement marks the first contract delivered under JIOS’s “Hub & Spoke” business model, which licenses the production of finished thermal barriers to experienced automotive suppliers located near end customers.
The contract was granted following a formal tender process by Hyundai Motor Group. Mass production is set to begin in June 2027, with a projected 12-year duration. JIOS expects significant order volumes over the mid-to-long term as Hyundai expands its electric vehicle lineup. This partnership validates JIOS’s technology at the highest tier of the automotive industry while ensuring long-term, predictable revenue through its regional manufacturing network.
Launched in 2025, the “Hub & Spoke” model concentrates core aerogel powder production at JIOS’s Korea facility (the Hub) to uphold rigorous quality and cost controls. These proprietary powders are then supplied to a global network of licensees (the Spokes) who handle high-volume Thermal Blade® manufacturing. This structure enables JIOS to support regional supply chains and meet localized production requirements without the capital intensity of constructing and operating multiple downstream assembly plants worldwide.
“By distinguishing upstream powder production from downstream assembly, JIOS can expand revenue without recurring substantial investments in new facilities,” said Stephen Kang, CEO and Co-Founder of JIOS. “Our licensees manage the local assembly footprint, allowing JIOS to build a global network that scales faster than our vertically integrated peers. This capital-efficient approach preserves our resources for high-value technology development while ensuring our business grows in tandem with global EV demand.”
With facilities in Singapore and Korea, JIOS is strategically positioned to assist automakers in reducing reliance on traditional supply chains. “Our operational presence aligns with the industry shift toward localized manufacturing near final assembly locations,” added James Lee, Chairman and Co-Founder. “We are pleased that our first licensee has secured this contract with Hyundai. This success provides a proven framework as we finalize similar partnerships with manufacturers in other key automotive regions.”
About JIOS Aerogel
JIOS Aerogel (JIOS) stands as the global leading producer of silica aerogel powder. Based in Singapore, the company was established in 2013 to innovate a new process that significantly reduces the cost of aerogel production. JIOS aims to accelerate the adoption of aerogels to enhance the safety and performance of electric-vehicle (EV) batteries. Recognized globally as the premier technology for mitigating thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, aerogels provide an ultra-thin insulation layer between battery cells, delivering exceptional thermal protection at high temperatures. For more information, visit .