Charbone, a leading advocate for green hydrogen technology, has recently leased three Hyundai NEXO hydrogen fuel cell automobiles through Foss National Leasing.
This move aims to promote zero-emissions hydrogen mobility in Montreal and raise awareness among federal, provincial, and municipal authorities, as well as other stakeholders in Canada and the United States. The vehicles were handed over to Charbone on June 9, 2023, at the Brossard Hyundai dealership premises in Quebec.
Charbone plans to use the NEXOs to showcase the benefits and viability of mobility powered by green hydrogen in the Montreal area and throughout North America. The company will introduce the vehicles during the Grand Prix Festival on Crescent Street from June 15 to June 18. This public event will offer an opportunity for attendees to learn about the production, distribution, and use of green hydrogen, as well as the technology behind Hyundai’s cars. An on-site compressed hydrogen refueling station will also demonstrate vehicle filling techniques.
In December 2022, Charbone announced a partnership with the Filgo-Sonic Group to establish a network of refueling stations in Quebec. This collaboration will support the growth and accessibility of green hydrogen infrastructure in the region.
Hyundai Canada is a strategic partner for Charbone in the Canadian market, given Hyundai’s extensive range of electrified vehicles and its early adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology in Canada. Charbone believes that green hydrogen is the optimal fuel for the impending energy transition and the future of mobility. The partnership with Hyundai Canada, along with the lease agreement with FOSS, will play a crucial role in Charbone’s plans to deploy green hydrogen production facilities across Canada.
The Hyundai NEXO, powered by hydrogen, represents a sustainable energy source that emits clean water vapor and purifies the air as it is driven. The vehicle offers superior range conservation in cold climates compared to other battery electric powertrains, making it well-suited for Canadian winters. With a five-minute refill, the NEXO can travel up to 570 kilometers.
Dave B. Gagnon, CEO of Charbone, expressed excitement about the partnerships with Hyundai Canada and Foss National Leasing. He highlighted the opportunity to showcase hydrogen as an alternative fuel and demonstrate the effectiveness of the Hyundai NEXO in Canadian winter conditions. Charbone, in collaboration with local academic partners, will also conduct studies on the NEXO’s reliability during the upcoming winter season.
Ken Maisonville, Director of Sales at Hyundai Auto Canada, commended Charbone for its efforts in advancing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and promoting energy transition possibilities. He believes that the addition of Hyundai NEXO vehicles to Charbone’s fleet represents a significant step toward realizing the viability of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in Canada, especially in Quebec.
Foss National Leasing also expressed support for Charbone’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of informing and educating the market about the various zero-emission mobility options available. The company sees fuel cell-powered vehicles as a viable solution to meet the evolving needs of clients in the fleet mobility industry.
This collaboration between Charbone, Hyundai Canada, and Foss National Leasing demonstrates a shared commitment to decarbonizing mobility and fostering awareness about the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
