South Korean automaker Hyundai has surpassed its Japanese rival Toyota to become the number 1 position holder in global hydrogen vehicle sales. According to SNE Research, Hyundai Motor sold 4,700 units of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCV) in global markets during the first 6 months of this year, compared to 3,700 units by Toyota. Hyundai actually regained its title after it lost to Toyota when the Japanese automaker launched the second generation Mirai FCV earlier this year.
Related: Toyota’s Hydrogen Car Makes Successful Debut in Fuji 24 Hours Enduro
The reason behind increasing Hyundai FCV sales is the launch of new 2021 Nexo which arrived in January and has recorded 91.1% Y-o-Y increase in sales during the second quarter of this year. Although Toyota fell to second position, it still recorded an 8.3 times increase in sales on year-on-year basis. Honda in June announced to discontinue the Clarity FCV due to declining sales so the battlefield is primarily left for Hyundai and Toyota only.
Hyundai Nexo FCV
Hyundai Nexo which is built on a dedicated platform, is a replacement for the Tucson ix35 FCEV, and is powered by an electric motor that delivers 163 hp and 395 Nm. The car’s fuel cell system combines oxygen and hydrogen to a flow of electrons that powers the electric motor and charges the 1.56 kWh high-voltage battery. According to Hyundai, the fuel cell stack generates 95 kW of power, while the battery outputs 40 kW.
Nexo twice set the world record for longest distance run in a single filling, first in France in 2019 with 778km and then breaking its own record in May 2021 in Australia with 887.5 km in a single filling. The record however, was snatched by Toyota with the latest generation Mirai FCV in June 2021 which did 1,003km in a single filling on a series of roads south of Paris.
Related: Toyota Snatches World Hydrogen Distance Record from Hyundai
Hyundai and Toyota are probably the only two automakers which are keeping strong faith in hydrogen-powered vehicles as a viable alternative to hybrids & battery electric vehicles for future mobility.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
