Hyundai Motor Co., a leading automaker from South Korea, has recently strengthened its presence in the eco-friendly commercial vehicle market of the United States through a strategic partnership with California.
Hyundai Motor’s participation in California’s NorCAL ZERO Project signifies its commitment to zero-emission freight transportation in key regions like the San Francisco Bay Area and California’s Central Valley. This initiative aligns with the global shift towards sustainable mobility solutions and port decarbonization efforts.
Hyundai Motor, in collaboration with the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE), has been actively building a hydrogen mobility value chain in North America. This comprehensive approach involves the development of hydrogen infrastructure, supply of hydrogen-electric trucks, provision of financial services, and vehicle operation and management.
As part of the NorCAL ZERO Project, Hyundai Motor has supplied 30 Class 8 Xcient Fuel Cell trucks to G.E.T Freight Corp., marking the largest commercial deployment of its kind in the US. These heavy-duty trucks are expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability and cleaner transportation.
Hyundai Capital America is playing a crucial role in supporting the project by providing leasing and financing services. Additionally, the project is gaining momentum with the opening of a hydrogen refueling facility by FirstElement Fuel Inc., further facilitating the adoption of hydrogen-powered trucks in the region.
Looking ahead, Hyundai Motor plans to supply additional hydrogen trucks to California, supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Technical Assistance Grant Program. This ongoing collaboration underscores Hyundai’s commitment to advancing hydrogen technology and fostering sustainable transportation solutions.
