Hyundai and H2 introduce first electric trucks in operation

Hyundai Motor Company has confirmed at the ‘IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018’ in Hanover that beginning in 2019 and over a five year period Hyundai Motor and H2 Energy will provide 1,000 heavy-duty fuel cell electric trucks and an adequate supply chain for renewable hydrogen.

The supply of a fleet of fuel cell electric trucks to H2 Energy marks Hyundai Motor’s first expansion of its FCEV leadership into the eco-friendly commercial vehicle sector.

Hyundai New Zealand General Manager Andy Sinclair says “We are yet again advancing the field of fuel cell technology and electric vehicle in the automotive industry. Seeing the speed at which progress is being made within Hyundai is incredibly exciting and while we have no imminent plans to be taking any stock in New Zealand we are watching these developments with high interest.”

The fuel cell electric truck features a new 190kW hydrogen fuel cell system with two fuel cell systems connected in parallel, also a feature of NEXO. It is expected to deliver a single-fuelling travel range of approximately 400km, and in order to secure sufficient range, eight large hydrogen tanks are being compactly installed, utilising areas such as between the cabin and the rigid body.

The fuel cell electric truck boasts a distinctive design. It is presented in a simple and clean design which is also aerodynamically efficient, and features a spoiler and side protector.

The front grille symbolises hydrogen through geometric shapes, giving the vehicle a unique and powerful look. The vehicle emanates an eco-friendly look with a blue colour application and a bold side body graphic on the container, which also visualises its dynamic character.

H2 Energy is a company specialised in the production and supply of renewable hydrogen in Switzerland, with business subsidiaries in Germany, Norway and Austria. The company is experienced in the roll out of an optimised hydrogen ecosystem, which focuses on commercial viability for all stakeholders.

The global demand for eco-friendly commercial vehicles is expected to increase as eco-friendly government policies are enforced around the world.

Hyundai Motor also introduced fuel cell electric express buses during the PyeongChang Olympics in South Korea last February and is currently conducting a pilot operation with fuel cell electric buses in South Korea’s major cities, whilst reviewing plans for mass production by 2020. Domestically, FCEV taxis and car-sharing services are operating on public roads in Ulsan and Gwangju.

Hyundai Motor began the world’s first fuel cell electric vehicle lease in the United States, also supporting its wider transport industry, including FCEV taxis, and car-sharing services to further support the spread of eco-friendly technology usage.

Fuel cell electric truck specifications (4x2 cargo truck)*

* Vehicle under development and production model specification may vary. ** FCA: Front Collision Avoidance Assist, LDW: Lane Departure Warning.

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