Hyundai Motor Company has announced its plans to introduce the XCIENT hydrogen fuel cell tractor to the U.S. market next year. This cabover Class 8 6×4 fuel cell tractor boasts an impressive range of up to 450 miles when fully loaded and can be refilled in just about 30 minutes. Equipped with two Hyundai-built 90 kW fuel cell systems powering a 350 kW motor, capable of producing up to 1,650 lb.-ft. of torque, the XCIENT delivers powerful performance. Excess power generated by the fuel cells is efficiently stored in a 72 kW battery.
The XCIENT hydrogen trucks have already made significant strides globally. In Europe and Asia, these trucks have been employed in various applications, including logistics, distribution, and supermarket fulfillment. Last year, XCIENT trucks in Switzerland marked a historic milestone by becoming the first fuel cell trucks in the world to surpass 4 million miles of real-world use.
What sets the U.S. variant of XCIENT apart is its extended range, made possible through the installation of 10 hydrogen storage tanks. These tanks store 68 kg of hydrogen at an impressive 700 bar (approximately 10,000 psi). This extended range positions XCIENT as a viable choice for commercial vehicle customers, especially those in the heavy-duty trucking segment where efficiency is paramount.
Hyundai’s commitment to fuel cell technology extends beyond vehicles; the company aims to create a clean hydrogen ecosystem through innovative initiatives. One such endeavor is the ‘Waste-to-Energy’ project, where biogas extracted from organic waste is used in the hydrogen production system. This clean hydrogen finds applications in diverse industries, including transportation, construction, and power generation. Hyundai is actively collaborating with local Korean governments to demonstrate this concept and is exploring possibilities for expansion beyond Korean cities.
With its pioneering technology and dedication to sustainability, Hyundai continues to revolutionize the commercial vehicle sector, offering efficient and eco-friendly solutions for the future of transportation.
