2026 Hyundai Nexo FCEV is a hydrogen SUV

Can FCEVs like the new Hyundai Nexo help hydrogen take off?

While this looks like a concept car, it is actually the second-generation Hyundai Nexo FCEV, unveiled at the Seoul Mobile Show in South Korea. Nexo can thank its concept car for its view, the Initium concept unveiled by Hyundai in October, which previews this new model, and like other Hyundai models, the production model still fits the concept.

This new model is based on the modern “art of steel” design language and definitely doesn’t look like its predecessor. Although the old Nexo has a cute and curved design, the new Nexo has a more solid and blocky design that also clearly distinguishes it from other Hyundais.

Read: Hyundai warns Nexo owners to park outside with hydrogen leaks, just in case

The front includes modern dubbed “HTWO” LED lights, each with four different points. The second-generation Nexo is more upright than the old model and is displayed with contrasting black fender flares. The shape and size of the side windows are also particularly interesting, with thick C-pillars splitting from the side glass and flowing into the rear door.

Hyundai not only focuses on overhauling the Nexo design, but also makes significant improvements to the powertrain. Now it sways the 2.64 kWh battery pack, a 147 hp (110 kW) hydrogen fuel cell stack and a single motor that produces 201 HP (150 kW). The Sprint handled to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.8 seconds, and the hydrogen tank size grew from 13.9 lb (6.33 kg) to 14.7 lb (6.69 kg). Hyundai has a target range of more than 435 miles (700 kilometers) and says it will add more than 435 miles of driving range in just five minutes.

Just like modern battery-electric vehicles, the Nexo FCEV offers vehicle arrival capabilities. It can also be selected using a digital side mirror, and the European model has a towing capacity of 2200 lbs (1,000 kg).

Modern modern interior

While the SUV looks different from any other modern look, the cabin does include some familiar elements and is influenced by vehicles including the Sante Fe and Palisade. The dashboard includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. There is also a 12-inch overhead display, a column-type gear lever and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Hyundai also made the welcome decision to provide the Nexo with a dedicated slim touch panel for controlling all climate settings instead of incorporating them into the main display. Other cabin highlights include two wireless smartphone chargers, a digital rearview mirror, and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Hyundai has not announced market-specific pricing and availability details for the new Nexo FCEV, but additional information can be expected in the coming months.