Hyundai has been one of the key proponents of hydrogen vehicles and the company has announced plans to introduce a new fuel cell semi at the IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hannover, Germany.
Designed to build on the success of the ix35 Fuel Cell and Nexo, the fuel cell semi previews a production model that will be launched in 2019. The company is keeping details under wraps, but said the semi has a “simple and clean design which is also aerodynamically efficient.” Speaking of the latter, the semi has been equipped with a spoiler, sculpted side panels and aerodynamic mirrors.
Besides the aerodynamic design features, the semi has a bold front grille which echoes the one used on the Nexo and Santa Fe. However, Hyundai says this particular grille “symbolizes hydrogen” and gives the truck a “unique and powerful look.” The eco-friendly message is reinforced by blue accents and LED lighting units which hint at the high-tech powertrain.
Specifications will be announced at the show and Hyundai says the model will compete in Europe’s “eco-friendly commercial vehicle market” when it is launched next year.
While Hyundai was tight-lipped on details, they’re not the only automaker that is working on fuel cell semis. Earlier this year, Toyota unveiled Project Portal 2.0 which was a hydrogen-powered Class 8 semi which used a handful of components sourced from the Mirai.
While the two vehicles shared some components, that is where the similarities end. Unlike the car, the semi had a powertrain that produced 670+ hp (500 kW / 679 PS) and 1,325 lb-ft (1,794 Nm) of torque. The model also had a sleeper cab and a range in excess of 300 miles (482 km).