Hyundai premieres all-new NEXO, reinforcing hydrogen power

Hyundai Motor Co. on Thursday unveiled the all-new NEXO, the first full-change model of the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) since its launch in 2018, in its global debut at the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show. 

The second-generation hydrogen-powered car boasts an improved fuel cell system and powertrain advancements, bolstering its power output and performance compared with its predecessor, said the South Korean auto giant.  

Thanks to the new fuel cell system and an upgraded motor, Hyundai's latest NEXO targets a driving range of more than 700 kilometers on a single five-minute refill, a potential game-changer for consumers deterred by long EV charging times and limited infrastructure.

IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY

The all-new NEXO boasts an output of 190 kilowatts (kW) versus its predecessor’s 135 kW, according to Hyundai Motor. Its battery output is doubled from 40 kW to 80 kW.

Its fuel cell stack delivers 110 kW, up 16% from the previous model.

Its fuel efficiency and storage density have also improved thanks to a bigger hydrogen tank capacity.

Built upon the INITIUM concept, which was unveiled in October 2024, the NEXO reflects Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” philosophy with bold contours and futuristic HTWO signature lamps that nod to its hydrogen branding, according to the carmaker.

HTWO is Hyundai Motor Group’s brand dedicated to hydrogen fuel cell system development.  

The new mid-size hydrogen SUV is longer, wider and taller than its earlier version, offering a cargo space of up to 993 liters.

It is made of eco-conscious materials like recycled PET fabric and bio-processed leather, underscoring the company’s broader sustainability commitment.

Technology takes center stage in the cabin with a 12.3-inch infotainment system supporting over-the-air updates, a head-up display and voice recognition powered by generative AI.

Safety features include up to nine airbags for the protection of passengers and the NEXO’s hydrogen tank.

It is also equipped with the latest Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technologies for collision prevention and comes with lane-keeping assist and an upgraded body structure to secure top safety ratings globally.

The new-generation NEXO will be available in six colors – Creamy White Pearl, Phantom Black Pearl, Amazon Gray Metallic, Ocean Indigo Matte, Ecotronic Gray Pearl and Goyo Copper Pearl.

Its price was not unveiled but will likely be set at a similar level to the old model’s price, starting from 69.5 million won ($47,490).

TO KEEP LEADERSHIP

The global rollout of the new NEXO this year is expected to help the Korean auto giant tighten its grip on the global hydrogen fuel-cell auto market.

Since the original NEXO hit the road in 2018, it has proven that hydrogen can indeed be championed as a solution for commercial and passenger mobility.

Hyundai Motor’s leadership in hydrogen mobility spans 27 years.

The Korean auto giant is a dominant player with Toyota Motor Corp. in the global hydrogen-powered passenger car market.

To widen its lead in hydrogen energy technology, it took over its auto parts and components-producing sibling Hyundai Mobis Co.'s fuel cell business last year.

Write to Jung-Eun Shin and Gil-Sung Yang at newyearis@hankyung.com

Sookyung Seo edited this article.