Hyundai deploys hydrogen trucks in Uruguay
The deployment includes six trucks for regular operations and two additional units for backup and potential expansion. The vehicles will be used in forestry logistics, with the main fleet expected to cover close to one million kilometres annually.
Hyundai stated that the initiative represents ‘South America’s first-ever fleet operation of hydrogen fuel cell electric heavy-duty trucks.’
The Kahirós Project is led by a consortium of Uruguayan companies, including Ventus, Fraylog and Fidocar, Hyundai’s local partner. It is supported by a $40 million investment from Santander Group, with additional backing from the International Finance Corporation of the World Bank and the United Nations’ Renewable Energy Innovation Fund.
The project includes the construction of a 4.8 MW solar park and an electrolysis facility designed to produce up to 77 tonnes of green hydrogen per year. Operations are scheduled to begin in November 2026.
The XCIENT Fuel Cell truck is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell system delivering 180 kW, combined with a 350 kW electric motor. The system stores up to 68 kg of hydrogen and includes a 72 kWh battery. Under optimal conditions, the vehicle offers a range of up to 720 kilometres and is designed for heavy-duty applications with a gross combined weight of up to 82,000 lbs.
Hyundai emphasised the role of hydrogen-powered transport in reducing emissions in freight operations.
“Our Hyundai XCIENT trucks with hydrogen fuel cells supporting the Kahirós Project produce no tailpipe emissions and offer a lower-carbon alternative to traditional freight logistics methods,” siad Airton Cousseau, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Brazil and the Central and South America region.
Chul Youn Park, Senior Vice President at Hyundai Motor, added: “We aim to contribute to building a sustainable and safe freight ecosystem through hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles.”
1 Comment