Hyundai Auto Canada has announced the national launch of the first Nexo, Canada’s only fuel cell-powered SUV.
By collaborating with Modo, the first Vancouver-based carsharing co-operative of its kind, the Nexo will bring fuel cell technology to a wider audience than before.
Nexo is powered by hydrogen, which allows the vehicle to emit clean water vapour and purify the air as it is being driven. A five minute refill will last 570 km.
Modo will make two Nexo vehicles available for consumer use in the coming weeks through its carsharing services. Hyundai will also be the first to make fuel cell vehicles available for retail sale through select local dealerships.
“Hydrogen vehicles are the most promising type of alternative powertrain transportation in existence today,” said Hyundai Auto Canada president and CEO, Don Romano.
“It’s important for us to make innovative green technologies like Nexo readily available for Canadians to ensure a sustainable future.”
Hyundai maintains it is the only automaker in Canada to offer vehicles with four electrified powertrains including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell. With the launch of Nexo, Hyundai becomes the only automotive manufacturer in Canada to offer a second generation fuel cell vehicle – the first being the Tucson Fuel Cell which launched in 2015.
While hydrogen fuelling infrastructure is still in the early stages of development, Vancouver is home to one of Canada’s only public refuelling stations located in the city’s Marpole neighbourhood.
Members of the public who are interested in test-driving Nexo are able to do so at the Vancouver International Auto Show, which runs from 19-24 March.
