Hydrogen-powered Hyundais for ACT

Fleet of 20 Nexo hydrogen fuel-cell SUVs will contribute to emissions reductions

The Government of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is adopting the hydrogen-powered Hyundai Nexo as part of its drive towards clean transport. 

A total of 20 Nexos, which are fuel cell-powered electric vehicles (FCEVs), are due to be introduced to the Government’s fleet.

“For a long time, hydrogen has been touted as the fuel of the future. However, with the arrival of a fleet of Nexo FCEVs for the Australian Capital Territory Government, we’re pleased to say that it’s now the fuel of today,” said Jun Heo, CEO of Hyundai Motor Company Australia.

“As part of a line-up that includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric models, Nexo underscores our leadership in eco-mobility and our commitment to a sustainable, low-emissions motoring future in this country.”

The Hyundai Nexo, which is due to arrive on the market later this year, has a 666km range and a claimed refuelling time of three to five minutes – potentially making it a more suitable option for some drivers than a pure electric vehicle. It is also similarly quiet and emits only water. 

Power is generated by a fuel cell, which is fed with ambient air and hydrogen stored in an on-board tank, and the electricity produced by it is supplied to a battery and motor. Hyundai claims that the Nexo’s motor produces 88.3kW and 395Nm, which grants a 0-100km/h time of 9.5sec.

The Nexo is also the first hydrogen-powered vehicle to meet the Australian Design Rules (ADRs), which are national vehicle standards relating to factors such as safety and emissions.  

Hydrogen for the Hyundais will be provided by a new refuelling station in Canberra that is due to open soon. Only a handful of stations are scheduled to be in operation around the country by 2020, however, which will pose problems for the wider FCEV uptake.