Hydrogen has long been touted as a great solution in the automotive world, given the fact that it burns much cleaner than gasoline and can be refueled far quicker than electricity in EVs. While lacking greatly in terms of infrastructure, hydrogen still seems like a good fit for the world of larger commercial vehicles, which is precisely why Ford continues to invest in that particular technology as well. However, The Blue Oval’s rival – Stellantis – is giving up on its own hydrogen development program, it seems.
Stellantis has announced that it will discontinue its hydrogen fuel cell technology development program for a few reasons – including the limited availability of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, high capital requirements, and the need for stronger consumer purchasing incentives. As such, the automaker determined that it doesn’t see hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicles becoming viable before the end of the current decade.
This means that Stellantis won’t launch its new range of hydrogen-powered Pro One vehicles this year as previously expected, with production slated to kick off this summer. However, the company was quick to note that the decision to nix those plans won’t impact staffing at its production sites, as it will simply divert investments and research and technology centered around hydrogen to other projects.
“In a context where the Company is mobilizing to respond to demanding CO2 regulations in Europe, Stellantis has decided to discontinue its hydrogen fuel cell technology development program,” said Jean-Philippe Imparato, Chief Operating Officer for Enlarged Europe. “The hydrogen market remains a niche segment, with no prospects of mid-term economic sustainability. We must make clear and responsible choices to ensure our competitiveness and meet the expectations of our customers with our electric and hybrid passenger and light commercial vehicles offensive.”
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