The Hyundai NEXO is a hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV that represents one of the most advanced steps toward zero-emission mobility today. Hyundai’s flagship fuel-cell vehicle blends cutting-edge technology with a sustainable future mobility vision — producing only water vapor at the tailpipe and offering range and refueling convenience that rival many battery-electric cars.
What Makes the NEXO Special?
Zero-Emission Hydrogen Powertrain
Unlike conventional gasoline or pure battery-electric vehicles, the NEXO uses a hydrogen fuel cell stack that converts hydrogen into electricity to power its electric motor. This results in zero tailpipe emissions — only water vapor.
Performance & Range
- Power: Around 255 hp with an electric motor system.
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in about 7.8 seconds.
- Range: Claimed 700 km+ range on a full hydrogen fill, with five-minute refuel times.
- Hydrogen tank capacity: 6.69 kg for long distance driving.
These performance figures position NEXO beyond many early EV models in terms of real-world range and quick top-ups, making it appealing for longer trips.
Safety and Tech Features
The NEXO is engineered with a multi-frame reinforced architecture and comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) alongside up to 9 airbags securing high occupant safety.
Euro NCAP 5-Star Rating:
The NEXO has achieved a five-star safety score from Euro NCAP one of the most stringent global crash test standards with strong results in adult and child occupant protection and active safety features.
Interior & Connectivity
While exact interiors vary by market, the latest generation of NEXO is reported to feature:
- Dual 12.3-inch screens for instrument cluster and infotainment
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
- Wireless smartphone charging and digital rear-view mirror
These features enhance both comfort and connectivity, aligning the NEXO with premium SUV expectations.
IN Indian Context: Is NEXO Coming to India?
Interest in fuel-cell vehicles like the NEXO is growing in India. Hyundai has already begun a planned two-year test run with IndianOil, using a NEXO unit to evaluate performance and long-term fuel cell economy over real Indian road conditions.
However, hydrogen infrastructure is still scarce in India, which remains the biggest challenge for wide adoption, despite the NEXO being showcased at BHARAT MOBILITY GLOBAL EXPO in the past.
Comparison With Popular Cars in India
| Feature | Hyundai NEXO (Hydrogen SUV) | Hyundai Creta (ICE SUV) | Tata Curvv EV (Electric SUV) |
| Powertrain | Hydrogen Fuel Cell EV | Petrol/Diesel ICE | Battery EV |
| Emissions | Zero Emissions | High | Zero (Battery EV) |
| Range | 700+ km (H₂) | 500–600 km (tank) | 400+ km (battery) |
| Refueling / Charging | 5 min hydrogen fill | 3–5 min fuel | 30–60+ min DC Fast Charge |
| Safety | Euro NCAP 5★ | Bharat NCAP variable | Bharat NCAP 5★ |
| Infrastructure | Limited (India) | Extensive | Growing |
Note: NEXO boasts significantly longer real-world potential range and quicker refills but depends on hydrogen availability, while ICE and battery EVs are currently more practical in India.
Why NEXO Matters for Future Mobility
- Hydrogen as a Complement to EVs: Hydrogen fuel cell technology can offer advantages — especially quick refueling and long-range capabilities — complementing increasing demand for zero-emission options.
- Sustainable Materials: The latest model uses biodegradable or recycled interior materials and advanced aerodynamics for efficiency.
Global Safety Leadership: Top safety scores reinforce confidence in new propulsion technologies.
Conclusion
The Hyundai NEXO pushes the boundaries of sustainable mobility with fuel cell power, long range, fast refueling, and top safety credentials. While challenges remain especially fuel infrastructure in markets like India — the NEXO stands as a benchmark for what clean mobility could look like in the future.
