JAKARTA - The surprising decision has just been announced by global automotive giant Stellantis. The manufacturer that houses many brands from Abart, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Fiat to Jeep officially discontinues the development of hydrogen fuel cell technology (fuel cell). This strategic decision was taken after the company considered that the hydrogen market had not shown promising prospects in the medium term, especially for the segment of light commercial vehicles.
As a consequence of the decision, Stellantis also canceled the launch of the hydrogen-powered Pro One trading vehicle line which was originally scheduled for mass production this year at two main facilities: Hordain, France (intermediate size) and Gliwice, Poland (large size).
"In a situation where the company is focusing on meeting the increasingly stringent CO2 emission regulations in Europe, we decided to stop developing hydrogen fuel cell technology," said Jean-Philippe Imparato, Stellantis Chief Operating Officer for the Enlarged Europe area, quoted from the manufacturer's website, Thursday, July 17.
The hydrogen market is still very narrow, and in the medium term it has not shown economic sustainability. We must make firm and responsible decisions in order to remain competitive and meet customer expectations through strong electric and hybrid vehicles," he added.
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Stellantis mentioned several main factors behind this decision: the lack of hydrogen charging infrastructure, high investment needs, and weak incentives for consumers to switch to hydrogen vehicles.
Even so, Stellantis emphasized that there would be no impact on the workforce at the affected production site. Research and development (R&D) activities that were previously focused on hydrogen technology will be diverted to other projects.
The company is also in discussions with Symbio's shareholders of a hydrogen technology company that is part of the Stellantis ecosystem to evaluate the impact of current market conditions and find the best solution for their business continuity. Stellantis' decision marks a shift in strategies that are increasingly aimed at electrification, while placing hydrogen as an option that still has to wait for a more mature market momentum.
Previously, VOI also gave a dream about the future of an environmentally friendly hydrogen-powered car turning into a nightmare for hundreds of car owners in California. Drivers who bought Toyota Mirai, Toyota's flagship fuel cell vehicle, are now filing a lawsuit against manufacturers and other related parties. They accuse they have been misled into the feasibility of hydrogen refueling networks.
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