Hyundai Motor Company and Plus, the creator of an AI-powered virtual driver that enables trucks to operate fully autonomously, have unveiled a shared vision outlining how their collaboration on autonomous hydrogen-powered fuel cell trucks aims to accelerate the development of a hydrogen-powered freight network in the U.S.
The collaboration pairs Hyundai Motor's hydrogen-powered XCIENT Fuel Cell truck with Plus's AI-based autonomous driving software, SuperDrive, proposing a scalable and cost-effective solution to long-haul freight that aims to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial transportation.
David Liu, CEO and Co-Founder of Plus, said, "Autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks are a transformative step forward in sustainable freight. By combining self-driving and zero-tailpipe emission technologies, we are laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more efficient transportation system that meets the demands of today and the needs of tomorrow."
Hyundai Motor and Plus outline a practical framework for deploying autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks along high-utilization hub-to-hub routes. The approach focuses on:
- Initial deployment across major freight corridors to build early momentum.
- Stimulating demand for strategically placed hydrogen refueling stations.
- Expanding infrastructure to support a growing fleet and wider hydrogen use.
- Reinforcing scalability, as new routes drive further infrastructure investment and adoption.
Autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks offer zero-tailpipe emissions, fast refueling, long driving range, quieter operation, and reduced maintenance. These features position Hyundai Motor's XCIENT Fuel Cell truck as an ideal candidate for continuous long-haul transport, particularly as the hydrogen ecosystem matures.
