Hyundai presents new Nexo FCEV

Today, Hyundai Motor Company introduced the all-new Nexo fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) at its global launch event at the Seoul Mobility Show in Korea. Hyundai targets more than 700 km of range from a five-minute ‘charge’ and top-tier safety ratings thanks to the comprehensive safety features.

The second-generation Nexo reflects 27 years of fuel cell technology experience. This new model underscores the company’s commitment to a diversified vehicle electrification strategy, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrids, and FCEVs, offering wider consumer choice.

‘Art of Steel’ design

Based on the Initium concept, which was unveiled in October 2024, the all-new Nexo embodies Hyundai Motor’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language. “Nexo showcases a sturdy and sophisticated design, with bold lines and a solid structure that create a rugged image,” says the press release.

“The vehicle’s exterior is defined by its ‘HTWO’ Lamps, creating a distinctive FCEV-specific design cue that blends boldness with refinement, neatly encapsulating Hyundai Motor Group’s HTWO hydrogen brand and its ‘Hydrogen for Humanity’ message,” the release continues.

Nexo wants to offer a spacious environment to enhance passenger comfort and convenience. The key features are a curved, driver-centric display, intuitive controls, and an island-type center console with impressive storage space.

Digital side mirror displays integrate with the dashboard, trying to maximize openness and practicality. “This design creates a ‘Furnished Space’ infused with a high-tech feeling, delivering an engaging experience,” says Hyundai.

The all-new Nexo is longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor – 4,750/1,865/1,640 mm, 2,790 mm wheelbase – resulting in improved passenger comfort and increased rear cargo capacity, with a maximum of 993 liters behind the second seat row and 1,719 liters behind the first.

The newly implemented platform in the luggage area is designed to allow users to select and utilize accessories tailored to their needs freely. Sustainable materials are used throughout the vehicle.

New fuel cell system and powertrain enhancements

The Nexo boasts significant powertrain advancements. These advancements are centered around the fuel cell and power electronics systems, which have been enhanced to improve power output and performance.

A new motor system complements these enhancements. The total output has been elevated from 135 kW to 190 kW, while the battery’s production has doubled from 40 kW to 80 kW. These improvements contribute to a faster 0-100 kph acceleration time of 7.8 seconds compared with 9.2 seconds for the previous version.

The Nexo offers increased fuel storage capacity without compromising cabin space. The system’s all-electric range competitiveness is secured through enhanced fuel efficiency, increased hydrogen tank capacity (6.69 kg, up from 6.33 kg in the previous generation), and increased hydrogen storage density.

Aerodynamic improvements, including underbody optimizations and airflow management enhancements, reduce drag and improve efficiency. To further enhance usability, European-specification Nexo models offer a towing capability of up to 1,000 kg.

The Nexo’s e-Handling system enhances driving performance through motor torque control for improved handling. By adjusting motor output, the system optimizes grip, boosting steering response and stability.

The car utilizes a Smart Regenerative System (SRS) to enhance driving convenience by automatically adjusting regenerative braking based on navigation data and distance to vehicles ahead.

‘Intuitive and convenient’

Nexo offers a range of consumer-centric features to make the hydrogen-electric driving experience intuitive and convenient. The vehicle’s FCEV Route Planner helps drivers reach their destinations by incorporating necessary charging stations into routes when energy levels are low.

The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system has a curved display that combines a 12.3-inch driver information cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment monitor. The system supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates and features generative AI voice recognition.

Nexo’s infotainment offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bang & Olufsen Sound System with up to 14 speakers. Like Hyundai Motor’s BEVs, the NEXO features a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function that provides versatile power solutions inside and outside the vehicle.

Nexo features a digital center mirror (DCM) that enhances rear visibility by utilizing a camera-monitor system, and a digital side mirror system is available in some markets instead of traditional optical mirrors.

The in-vehicle fingerprint authentication system offers enhanced convenience and security by integrating fingerprint authentication into the high-end audio, visual, navigation, and telematics systems. Digital Key 2 allows vehicle entry and start via wireless smartphone communication.

Coming to global markets later this year, Hyundai Motor’s new Nexo proves that the company wants leadership in the global hydrogen market. Hyundai Motor continues to expand FCEV infrastructure and strengthen its market position as a pioneer in hydrogen mobility.