Hyundai has launched its XCIENT hydrogen fuel cell semi trucks in Georgia, marking a significant step in the use of hydrogen power for medium- and heavy-duty trucking in North America. The trucks are set to operate at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), where they will support logistics operations at the new manufacturing facility.
The fleet will consist of 21 Hyundai XCIENT trucks, each equipped with electric motors delivering around 470 hp and 1650 lb-ft of torque at 0 rpm. Unlike other electric vehicles with direct-drive systems, the XCIENT trucks utilize an Allison 400 Series six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring the electric motors operate within their optimal efficiency range, even at highway speeds.
Hyundai expects the trucks to offer a range of approximately 400 km (250 miles), though specific hydrogen tank specifications were not provided. Jim Park, Senior Vice President of commercial vehicle and hydrogen business development at Hyundai Motor North America, highlighted the deployment as a key part of Hyundai’s HTWO strategy, aimed at creating a sustainable hydrogen logistics ecosystem to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing operations.
In collaboration with Glovis America, Hyundai’s joint venture, HTWO Logistics, will also establish a mobile hydrogen refueling station at the site. This station will enable more efficient fueling and better control over hydrogen sourcing, leakage, and boil-off. Additionally, Hyundai is developing a clean hydrogen production and refueling station at the Megasite, which will be announced soon.
