After debuting as a concept at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo in 2024 in Las Vegas, Hyundai Motor Company’s new Xcient fuel cell class-8 tractor now takes the stage in Anaheim in 2025 as the company’s hydrogen solution designed specifically for the North American market. The new fuel cell tractor has added features for safety, driver comfort and performance.
With 68 kg hydrogen storage capacity and a maximum range of 450 miles, the new Xcient is powered by a 180 kW hydrogen fuel cell system paired with a 72 kWh battery pack. A 350 kW electric motor generates 1,650 ft. lbs. of torque.
Among the biggest additions is a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to reduce driver fatigue and improve safety. ADAS technologies include forward collision-avoidance assist, lane departure warning, smart cruise control, forward collision warning and blind-spot collision warning.
“At Hyundai Motor, we are redefining the future of clean logistics with innovative solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency and sustainability,” said Ken Ramirez, Hyundai Motor Company’s executive president and head of global commercial vehicle and hydrogen business. “By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as ADAS features and forging strategic partnerships to enhance operations and infrastructure, we are empowering our fleet partners to navigate a rapidly changing landscape and lead the transition to a smarter and more sustainable future.”
The Xcient’s interior also has been enhanced for driver convenience and comfort, including a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and an additional 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring physical buttons integrated into the center console for driver convenience and ergonomics.
Since the initial tractor development in 2020, Hyundai has deployed Xcient trucks across the country in various applications. The company has tallied 450,000 miles with 30 Xcient trucks in operation in the Port of Oakland since 2023 as part of the NorCAL ZERO Project, representing its largest deployment of fuel cell trucks in the country.
Hyundai also has 21 Xcient trucks deployed at its Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) plant in Savannah, representing roughly half of the operation’s inbound and outbound delivery logistics. The company announced plans to launch ‘HTWO Energy Savannah’ by the end of 2025, representing the industry’s first Class-8 heavy-duty truck hydrogen refueling and electric recharging station in collaboration with HydroFleet and Capital Development Partners, assisting development near HMGMA.
