Hyundai’s Nexo hydrogen fuel cell vehicle has broken a world record for single-tank range, demonstrating the technology’s readiness for long-distance personal mobility and intensifying its competition with battery electric cars.
The Nexo covered 1,400.9 kilometers (870.5 miles) on a single hydrogen fill, achieved over 36 hours of continuous driving. This performance significantly surpasses a previous record set by Toyota in 2021.
This achievement highlights hydrogen fuel cell technology as a zero-emission alternative. It offers extensive range and rapid refueling times comparable to gasoline vehicles, unlike the longer charging durations typically associated with battery electric vehicles.
The All New Nexo utilizes a 150 kW fuel cell system and produces 35.7 kg·m of torque. It avoids the heavy battery packs and extended waiting periods common in many electric vehicle designs.
While the commercial Nexo model is advertised with a 720 km (447 miles) range, the recent test managed to nearly double that distance. The test was conducted under controlled conditions with efficient driving techniques.
This demonstrates advancements in thermal management, hydrogen flow optimization, and powertrain reliability.
Hyundai seeks to solidify its position in a nascent sector that still faces skepticism but presents substantial growth opportunities. The Nexo, with an initial price point of approximately 76.43 million South Korean Won (around $60,348 USD), aims to address concerns about range for sport utility vehicles.
The record-breaking drive took place in mid-October in South Korea’s Saemangeum area, starting from a recharging station in Gunsan. Several automotive content creators participated, rotating at the wheel. A second Nexo also achieved 1,360.7 km (845.5 miles) during the same test.
Precise driving and basic adjustments, such as tire pressure, were crucial to optimizing the fuel cell system’s efficiency. The involvement of influencers helped convey the message to a broader public, which often perceives hydrogen as a distant or heavy-transport-only technology.
Despite the demonstrated capabilities, infrastructure development remains the primary hurdle for widespread adoption of hydrogen vehicles. Countries like South Korea and Japan are making rapid progress, supported by public policies aimed at leading in green hydrogen.
In Europe, infrastructure growth is more uneven. Germany and France are actively promoting strategic corridors and stations, particularly for heavy transport. This could also benefit passenger vehicles like the Nexo.
Recent European Union regulations, designed to accelerate the adoption of renewable fuels in mobility, are also creating opportunities for fuel cell technologies to contribute to emissions reduction without solely relying on battery solutions.
Hyundai has stated its commitment to expanding infrastructure, enhancing user experience, and making hydrogen mobility accessible to the general public. This includes participation in hydrogen corridor projects within South Korea.
The company also participates in pilot initiatives that integrate renewable-powered electrolyzers, hydrogen public transport, and regional recharging networks.
Hyundai believes that purchasing a Nexo is increasingly seen not just as an interest in a different technology, but as an investment in a stable and functional product that can compete with established automotive alternatives.