SEOUL: The 2026 Hyundai Nexo fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) will offer a driving range of 826km (WLTP) from a quick five-minute hydrogen refill.
Due for a global launch in early 2026, the new Nexo's hydrogen system now features greater storage capacity — 6.69kg from 6.33kg in the previous generation model — without compromising cabin space.
The new Nexo features significant upgrades to both its fuel cell (FC) and power electronics (PE) systems.
A newly developed PE system doubles battery output from 40kW to 80kW.
This works in tandem with a more efficient hydrogen fuel cell stack, now delivering a maximum gross output of 110kW — a 16% increase over the previous 95kW — and a net system output of 94kW, up 11% from 85kW.
Together, these enhancements boost total system output from 135kW to an impressive 190kW.
This increased power enables the new electric motor to deliver 150kW, cutting the 0-100kph acceleration time to just 7.8 seconds — down from 9.2 seconds.
Additional refinements include improved low-temperature operability, a more durable membrane structure, and enhanced cell uniformity.
The new ‘Wake Up’ anti-freezing function and other optimizations ensure reliable cold-weather performance.
The new Nexo also includes a Smart Regenerative System (SRS) to reduce driver workload and to promote smoother progress.
This intelligent system automatically adjusts regenerative braking based on navigation data and the proximity of vehicles ahead while utilising map information to account for road features such as speed cameras and speed bumps.
This reduces driver intervention by managing deceleration during coasting, all while offering customisable distance settings based on driver preferences.
With a towing capacity of up to 1,000 kg, the new Nexo becomes the first FCEV to offer this level of functionality,
The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) combines two 12.3-inch curved displays.
Supporting over-the-air (OTA) updates and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system also features generative AI-powered voice recognition and an Audio by Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with up to 14 speakers.
A head-up display (HUD) projects critical driving information — including speed, autonomous driving data, and safety alerts, directly onto the windshield — reducing distractions.
Additional advanced features include the Rear Occupant Alert System which enhances safety by using radar sensors to detect movement in the rear seats and issuing audible and visual alerts to prevent occupants, such as children, from being left inside the vehicle.
The new Nexo introduces Hyundai Motor’s ‘Art of Steel’ design language, featuring bold lines and a solid structure that convey a rugged yet refined image.
To enhance its visual impact, the new Nexo features a three-coat paint process, creating a multidimensional finish.
Increased dimensions make the new Nexo longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in improved passenger comfort and increased cargo capacity.
With a maximum rear storage volume of 993 litres, the SUV (sport utility vehicle) provides enough space to accommodate up to four golf bags.
Comfort is further enhanced with first-row Premium Relaxation Seats, which include leg rests and slim backs that improve knee clearance and legroom for second-row passengers.
