The Hyundai NEXO, the first fuel cell electric vehicle registered in Spain, has achieved its first hydrogen refueling at the Alsa facilities with the support of Carburos Metálicos. This milestone took place at the maintenance center of the mobility company located in Torrejon de Ardoz, Madrid.
According to Javier Arboleda, Senior Service Manager of Hyundai Motor Spain, the Hyundai NEXO boasts two significant advantages: its quick refueling time and zero emissions. This vehicle can be fully refueled in just five minutes. Additionally, its regenerative braking system harnesses excess energy produced during braking and stores it in the battery, enabling the NEXO to maintain optimal battery conditions and achieve a range of over 600 km.
The Hyundai NEXO exemplifies the Korean brand’s commitment to environmentally friendly technologies that eliminate emissions. The model’s only byproduct is water, earning it an official environmental certification of zero emissions. Consequently, the Hyundai NEXO is allowed to operate in any city, regardless of pollution levels. Moreover, the vehicle features an air filter that ensures the fuel cell operates efficiently by removing microparticles from the air it passes through.
This successful hydrogen refueling operation at the Alsa facilities became possible through the installation of a hydrogen generator, the first of its kind commissioned for public transport in the Community of Madrid. The hydrogen is produced by Carburos Metálicos (part of the Air Products group), a leading company in Spain’s industrial gases sector. Carburos Metálicos is also responsible for supplying renewable hydrogen.
Leopoldo Satrustegui, General Director of Hyundai Motor Spain, emphasized the importance of companies like Alsa and Carburos Metálicos supporting zero-emission energies like hydrogen. He emphasized the need for a firm commitment from both the public and private sectors to contribute to the development of a sustainable future.
Alsa, the mobility company, introduced Spain’s first hydrogen-powered bus for stable and permanent operation in 2022. Currently, this bus serves an urban line in Torrejón de Ardoz. Alsa’s dedication to hydrogen is part of its larger commitment to leading the transition to zero-emission fleets in Spain. The company aims to make all urban buses operated in Spain zero emissions by 2035.
Miquel Lope, General Director of Carburos Metálicos, highlighted the company’s expertise in the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to vehicle refueling using their own hydrogen generators. Carburos Metálicos offers solutions for various sectors, including mobility, to further progress toward achieving a net zero carbon balance by 2050.
Hyundai has been at the forefront of fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology, starting its research and development efforts in the 1990s. This commitment has led to the production of energy-efficient models with reduced emission levels. In 2013, Hyundai made history by mass marketing its ix35 Fuel Cell, marking a significant milestone in the automotive industry. Today, Hyundai leads the way in sustainable mobility with its comprehensive range of electrified vehicles, including 100% electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell vehicles like the Hyundai NEXO.
