Nexo fuel cell EV announced by Hyundai

Electric cars equipped with hydrogen fuel cells will only become popular when an adequate refuelling infrastructure exists. In the UK, for example, there are currently just twelve hydrogen stations (and five of them are clustered around London).

Unfortunately, that means the Hyundai Nexo might struggle to find customers in Britain. This new FCEV – which replaces the ix35 Fuel Cell – is going to be available soon in selected markets.

Hyundai Nexo (2018) Side

Nexo improves on its predecessor across a number of key areas. Many of them stem from the introduction of a dedicated vehicle architecture that’s lighter and allows for better packaging.

A more compact fuel cell stack delivers energy to a 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) electric motor. With 395 Nm (291 lb/ft) of torque, the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) sprint takes 9.5 seconds. By comparison, the 134 bhp (100 kW / 135 PS) ix35 Fuel Cell needs two extra seconds to reach the same speed.

Hyundai Nexo (2018) Front Side

Range is arguably not as critical as it would be for a plug-in electric vehicle (provided there are convenient hydrogen-refill facilities, of course).

Nevertheless, Hyundai estimates that the Nexo could travel for 500 miles (805 kilometres) according to the New European Driving Cycle measure. The equivalent distance achievable by an ix35 Fuel Cell is 131 miles (210 kilometres) less.

Hyundai Nexo (2018) Rear Side

Cold-start capability, hot-weather running and high-altitude performance are all claimed to be enhanced, too.

Nexo pricing has yet to be confirmed by Hyundai.

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