The Rise of Hydrogen: Hyundai's Reentry into the Clean Energy Race
Key Ideas
- Hyundai, in a shift from its earlier stance, is recommitting to hydrogen powertrains in light of global EV sales slowdowns.
- The second-generation Nexo FCEV, set for a 2025 release, features advancements like a 100kW fuel cell stack and over 800km range.
- Hyundai aims to lead the market in hydrogen uptake, with plans for production of the Nexo and potential hydrogen production from waste biomass and plastics.
- The company is also exploring ways to make hydrogen-powered vehicles more affordable to increase sales volume.
In a surprising turn of events, Hyundai is revisiting its stance on hydrogen powertrains amidst a slowdown in global electric vehicle sales. Previously focused on electric vehicles, Hyundai now sees an opportunity in the hydrogen market. The company is set to release the second-generation Nexo Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) in 2025, featuring a 100kW fuel cell stack and an increased range of over 800km. The new model is also more compact and durable, expected to last up to 320,000km. Despite the limited hydrogen filling stations globally, Hyundai is optimistic about the potential of hydrogen as a niche market worth exploring. The company's CEO, Jaehoon Chang, expressed confidence in pioneering the uptake of hydrogen vehicles and leading the market. Hyundai is not only focusing on vehicle production but also on innovating in hydrogen production methods, such as extracting hydrogen from waste biomass and plastics. With a vision to make hydrogen-powered vehicles more affordable, Hyundai's reentry into the hydrogen market marks a significant shift in the clean energy race.