Next Generation Hyundai Nexo Hydrogen FCEV Delayed – Report
Hyundai has reportedly decided to delay the launch of its next-generation Nexo SUV until 2024 due to problems with its next-generation hydrogen fuel cell power unit.
Originally published in the Seoul Economic Daily and published on Reuters, the report argues that the slowdown is due to problems in the auto parts industry, aka the supply chain.
Hyundai planned to mass-produce the new Nexo in 2023 using a lower-cost, next-generation fuel cell powertrain for electric vehicles (FCEV).
For more car-related news and videos, check Motoring >>
The South Korean automaker said in September 2021 that it expected its new FCEV stack to be about 50 percent cheaper than current versions due to its reduced reliance on materials such as graphite and platinum.
It also plans to introduce a Staria-based FCEV people mover in 2023.
Current Nexo Credit: CarExpert
The hydrogen fuel cell drive unit is typically the most expensive part of an FCEV.
The Seoul Economic Daily report also said the launch schedule for Genesis hydrogen fuel cell vehicles has not yet been set.
The South Korean newspaper says this is due to Genesis suspending a project to develop its first FCEV late last year.
Genesis recently removed two models from its promised 2030 lineup and has reformulated its claim about the type of zero-emission vehicles it will offer.
Included credit: CarExpert
Hyundai launched the Nexo hydrogen fuel cell in 2018 and it arrived in Australia in 2020 for fleet applications.
Its powertrain produces a total system power of 120 kW and 395 Nm of torque. This is similar to the turbo diesel engine in Tucson.
Unlike its predecessor – the ix35 Fuel Cell, Hyundai’s first FCEV – the Nexo uses a unique platform. It measures 4670mm long, 1630mm high, and 1860mm wide.
While the official range of the Nexo under the stricter WLTP standard is already a devilishly good 666 km, a team was recently able to log in at 887.5 km with Australian rally driver Brendan Reeves behind the wheel.
Toyota Mirai Credit: CarExpert
Like Hyundai, Toyota has also invested heavily in hydrogen fuel cell technology. The Japanese giant offers the Mirai FCEV in Australia, which is also available only for fleets.
A major hurdle with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is the lack of infrastructure, with only three public hydrogen filling stations in the country.
Morrison’s previous Liberal government promised more as part of its Future Fuels and Vehicle Strategy. At the same time, the Labor Party pledged to invest up to $80 million in gas station infrastructure in the 2022 elections.
A renewable hydrogen refueling highway for heavy-duty trucks is in the works that will connect Victoria to Queensland, with a memorandum of understanding between the three eastern Australian states.
Hyundai Xcient FCEV Truck Credit: CarExpert
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has previously indicated that $20 million in funding has been allocated to build this superhighway.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology appears to be most suitable for heavy commercial applications.
Hyundai has previously said it plans to bring its FCEV trucks Down Under from 2025. It also expects cost parity with diesel trucks by 2030.
