NANO and Hyundai Partner to Deliver Advanced Nuclear Power

NANO Nuclear Energy is partnering with Hyundai Engineering Co. to commercialize its compact nuclear technology.

The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding to move forward with the KRONOS MMR Energy System project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. According to the companies, they are looking at how to build and roll out future microreactors together on a larger scale across the U.S.

Turning Blueprints Into Advanced Nuclear

Designing an advanced reactor is one thing, but building it is a whole different skill set. That is where Hyundai Engineering will play a role. 

The South Korean firm brings over a decade of hands-on experience with this specific reactor technology, dating back to work that began in 2012. NANO Nuclear acquired the tech in 2025, so Hyundai’s background gives the project some helpful continuity.

Right now, the teams are setting up a joint working group focusing on early logistics, site planning, supply chains, and figuring out how parts can be built modularly in factories and shipped directly to the site. Over time, that work could expand into full construction management, parts fabrication, and setting up dedicated U.S. manufacturing facilities.

“NANO Nuclear is deliberately assembling the industrial capabilities required to move advanced nuclear technology from design into repeatable deployment,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “Our objective is not simply to develop an advanced microreactor; it is to build the broader platform around it. This includes engineering, manufacturing, fuel, transportation, project execution and the necessary supply chain that can support real projects at scale.”

Yu added, “Hyundai Engineering brings project-delivery capabilities that can become increasingly valuable as the KRONOS MMR™ system advances from design to regulatory licensing and into construction and ultimate commercialization.”

A Long-Term Supply Chain

Down the road, both companies want to see if this setup can support other clean energy uses. That includes industrial heat, hydrogen production, water desalination, and maritime shipping.

This initial agreement does not guarantee construction or lock in funding just yet. It is non-exclusive, meaning specific work packages and commercial contracts still need to be negotiated later.