Stellantis has abandoned its hydrogen fuel cell programme, saying the market remains too small, too costly and too uncertain for any realistic adoption this decade.
The global carmaker — which owns Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Vauxhall, Opel, Jeep, Chrysler and more — confirmed it will no longer roll out its hydrogen-powered Pro One light commercial vans.
Production had been set to start this summer in Hordain, France and Gliwice, Poland.
“In a context where the Company is mobilizing to respond to demanding CO₂ regulations in Europe, Stellantis has decided to discontinue its hydrogen fuel cell technology development program,” said Jean-Philippe Imparato, Chief Operating Officer for Enlarged Europe.
He added: “The hydrogen market remains a niche segment with no prospects of mid-term economic sustainability. We must make clear and responsible choices to ensure our competitiveness and meet the expectations of our customers with our electric and hybrid passenger and light commercial vehicles offensive.”
The firm pointed to the limited hydrogen refuelling network, high upfront costs and a lack of strong incentives as key reasons behind the U-turn.
Stellantis now plans to double down on its battery electric and hybrid vehicle ranges instead.
No jobs will be lost as a result of the decision, with staff at the French and Polish plants redeployed.
Meanwhile, research and development resources for hydrogen will be refocused on other technology within the group.
The move also casts uncertainty over Symbio, Stellantis’ hydrogen tech joint venture with Michelin and Forvia.
Discussions are underway with fellow shareholders “to evaluate the current market consequences and to preserve the best interests of Symbio, in line with their respective obligations.”
Hydrogen backers have long touted it as a clean alternative for transport.
But with Stellantis walking away, it’s another blow for the sector already grappling with sluggish infrastructure and weak demand — while electric vehicles keep accelerating ahead.
Peugeot owner Stellantis abandons hydrogen cars appeared first on Energy Live News.