Hyundai to rival Daimler, Volvo by launching fuel cell trucks in Europe

South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Company will reportedly ship all-new models of fuel-cell trucks to Europe by the fourth quarter of 2021 to test the feasibility of commercial hydrogen-powered transport.

According to reliable sources, the move will also enable Hyundai to raise the stakes in Europe’s hydrogen space and take on some leading truck manufacturers such as Daimler AG and Volvo Group.

The new range of the Hyundai Xcient truck is equipped with fuel cells that provide higher efficiency and a longer life span. Although hydrogen is more expensive and less popular than electric batteries, it is known to offer a greater range and is relatively advantageous in the long run.

It is worth mentioning that Hyundai H2 Energy, which was launched to counter climate change, has been providing hydrogen trucks on rent to commercial clients in Switzerland since last October. It is also planning to expand this venture to Netherlands and Germany by 2022.

The focus on reducing truck CO2 emissions has given rise to the popularity of hydrogen as a fuel in Europe, experts claimed. This has motivated various local companies to develop their hydrogen vehicles.

Despite their higher costs, fuel-cell electric vehicle utilization rates are slated to increase in Europe in the forthcoming years, primarily due to measures like threats of diesel bans, higher taxes on vehicles emitting CO2, and a 75% reduction on road tolls for greener vehicles.

Chief Executive of Daimler AG Martin Daum stated that a hydrogen fueling network needs to be developed across Europe for the fuel cell truck market to prosper Europe. He further stated that this could take years to happen.

In related news, Nikola Corporation as well as Iveco S.p.A are planning to launch their fuel cell electric trucks in Europe by 2023. Other automotive giants such as AB Volvo and Daimler AG truck models also intend to begin testing by June 2024.

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https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/mhcv/hyundai-raises-hydrogen-game-as-new-trucks-roll-into-europe/82903755