The automotive giant Stellantis recently put the brakes on its hydrogen fuel cell project. This means they will not release any more hydrogen-powered vehicles this year. Their decision comes down to a few hard truths.
One big issue is the lack of places for drivers to refuel hydrogen vehicles. Building this infrastructure costs a lot of money. Plus, there aren’t enough reasons for customers to buy these cars yet.
Jean-Philippe Imparato, who handles Stellantis’s operations for the wider European region, spoke plainly about the situation. He stated in an official press release, “The hydrogen market remains a niche segment, with no prospects for medium-term economic sustainability.” This means the company doesn’t see hydrogen paying off anytime soon.
Stellantis aims to stay competitive in the car market. This means focusing on vehicles that customers want now, like electric and hybrid cars and light commercial vehicles. The company says it won’t likely embrace hydrogen for light commercial vehicles before 2030.
Uncertainty for Stellantis’s Hydrogen Partner
This news came as a surprise to Michelin and Forvia, who are partners in Symbio, a company focused on hydrogen technology. Forvia mentioned that Stellantis is Symbio’s biggest customer, making up nearly 80% of its business. This makes Stellantis’s decision a huge blow, leading to “serious operational and financial consequences.”
Michelin’s main worry is about the people working at Symbio, both in France and other locations. Symbio employs over 650 staff members. The company also just opened a large factory in eastern France in 2023, along with a new facility in California.
Stellantis bought a stake in Symbio in 2023. Now, the automaker is talking with its partners about what this means for their joint venture. They want to make sure the company’s best interests are still protected. These discussions are happening as production for Stellantis’s new Pro One range was set to begin this summer in Hordain, France, and Gliwice, Poland.
Source: Stellantis Official Press Release