Hyundai Motor Advances Clean Logistics with Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks in the U.S.

At the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo 2024, Hyundai Motor Company unveiled its U.S. clean logistics business and demonstrated its commitment to a sustainable transportation future through its hydrogen-powered initiatives, including the Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric truck.

Ken Ramirez, Hyundai’s Executive Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business, emphasized the company’s dedication to building a Hydrogen Society. He discussed Hyundai’s comprehensive approach, which includes hydrogen production, storage, logistics, and usage, aiming to lead the global energy transition. “Our HTWO brand epitomizes Hyundai’s expansion from mobility solutions to a broader hydrogen value chain, reinforcing our position as a leader in the global shift to alternative energies,” Ramirez stated.

Jim Park, Senior Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business Development at Hyundai Motor North America, highlighted the deployment of the Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks in significant projects like the NorCAL ZERO Project at the Ports of Oakland and Richmond, and the Clean Logistics Project in Georgia. These projects are part of Hyundai’s efforts to decarbonize key sectors of transportation and logistics.

Additionally, Hyundai Motor and GLOVIS America have launched HTWO Logistics, a joint venture aimed at fostering zero-emission logistics operations in Georgia. This initiative is centered around Hyundai’s new manufacturing facility and aims to create a comprehensive hydrogen mobility ecosystem in the region. “HTWO Logistics is set to play a crucial role in developing a clean hydrogen value chain, from production to vehicle refueling,” explained Glenn Clift, Executive Director of GLOVIS America.

Hyundai also introduced new technological enhancements for the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck at the expo, including a digital instrument cluster and advanced driver-assistance systems to improve safety and driver comfort. Furthermore, in collaboration with autonomous driving technology leader Plus, Hyundai is testing Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities on these hydrogen trucks, marking a significant advancement in integrating autonomous technology with clean energy vehicles.

Hydrogen is increasingly viewed as a viable solution for reducing emissions in commercial transport due to its high energy density and efficiency for long-haul operations. Hyundai’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, which is already operational in Europe, South Korea, and now North America, is at the forefront of this shift.

Hyundai’s HTWO initiative continues to expand, covering all aspects of the hydrogen value chain and exploring innovative production methods, including the conversion of organic waste into hydrogen. This approach not only emphasizes sustainability but also supports Hyundai’s vision of a comprehensive ecosystem for clean energy solutions.