Hyundai renews its Xcient Fuell Cell truck. Now, of course, it is not Truck Week here, but we are happy to make an exception for a hydrogen-powered vehicle that should score especially in Europe.
Hyundai presented the Xcient Fuell Cell in 2020. As is often the case with new technology, development is fast, and so there is already a new variant. When it comes to usability, it is all not too bad, because Hyundai still promises a range of about 400 kilometers and a refueling time of between 8 and 20 minutes. The driving range is achieved from a total of 31 kg of hydrogen and battery packs with a total capacity of 72 kWh.
According to Hyundai, performance has also improved, thanks to an electric motor that delivers 350 kW (477 hp) and a whopping 2,237 Nm. The Xcient Fuel Cell is now also available in a 6×2 configuration, so with an extra rear axle.
On the outside, the renewed Xcient Fuel Cell can be recognized by a new, interestingly arranged grille, more chrome and a large Hyundai logo.
Switzerland
The Xcient Fuel Cell is the hydrogen version of the regular Hyundai Xcient, a distribution truck that is not available here. For the time being, this also applies to the variant with fuel cell, but it is still a European project. Hyundai works together with the Swiss company H2 Energy for this truck and has already delivered 46 units in Switzerland last year. By the end of this year, another 140 are to be added and by 2025 Hyundai aims to have 1,600 fuel cell trucks across Europe.
Better than BEV
According to Hyundai, hydrogen is ideal for freight transport and the brand is not alone in this. A battery-electric truck would need a gigantic battery pack to be usable, which, in addition to a lot of extra weight and cost, also means significant charging times. Hydrogen overcomes these problems and, just like diesel, can be refueled, although of course an infrastructure is required.