As the world shifts to electric vehicles (EVs) to cut emissions, hydrogen-powered cars remain underappreciated despite their potential. Unlike EVs, which have seen widespread adoption, hydrogen vehicles face challenges like limited refueling stations, technological hurdles, and production difficulties.
However, major automakers such as BMW, Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda are investing in hydrogen technology, expanding options beyond current models like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo.
With promising prototypes and concepts emerging, the future of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles looks bright, offering a compelling alternative in the zero-emission vehicle market. Here are 15 upcoming hydrogen cars to watch.
1. BMW iX5 Hydrogen
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen exemplifies BMW’s commitment to hydrogen fuel cell technology, addressing key concerns like range and refueling time. With an impressive 313-mile range and a rapid 3-4 minute refueling time, it competes with traditional gasoline vehicles while avoiding the long charging periods of battery-electric cars.
This hydrogen-powered SUV demonstrates BMW’s innovative approach to sustainable mobility, showcasing a viable alternative to battery-electric vehicles.
Beyond efficiency, the iX5 Hydrogen delivers strong performance with 401 horsepower and 524 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 6.0 seconds. BMW is leveraging this vehicle as a testbed, gathering real-world data to refine hydrogen fuel cell technology and infrastructure.
Through its pilot program, the company aims to encourage investment in hydrogen refueling stations and production facilities, promoting the broader adoption of fuel cell vehicles in the future.
2. Hyundai N Vision 74
The Hyundai N Vision 74 merges heritage with innovation, drawing inspiration from the classic 1974 Pony Coupe Concept while pushing the boundaries of hydrogen hybrid technology.
As Hyundai’s first hydrogen-powered concept under the N performance brand, it embodies the company’s ambition to combine sustainability with high performance.
Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, this retro-futuristic coupe pays tribute to Hyundai’s design roots while embracing cutting-edge advancements in alternative fuel propulsion.
With a combined 671 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, the N Vision 74 delivers exceptional performance, accelerating from 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds and exceeding a top speed of 115 mph.
Its hydrogen system offers a driving range of over 372 miles with an ultra-fast 5-minute charging time, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen as a viable energy source for high-performance vehicles.
While the original Pony Coupe never made it to production, Hyundai’s bold vision for the N Vision 74 signals a strong commitment to the future of sustainable performance cars.
3. Toyota GR Yaris H2
The Toyota GR Yaris H2 marks a significant leap in hydrogen combustion technology, presenting an alternative to conventional fuel-cell electric vehicles. Introduced in December 2021, this rally-inspired car is built on the highly acclaimed GR Yaris platform, known for its agility and high performance.
Unlike Toyota’s Mirai, which utilizes hydrogen fuel cells, the GR Yaris H2 features a modified 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that directly burns hydrogen.
While Toyota has not disclosed exact performance figures, the car’s power potential ranges from the standard GR Yaris’ 257 horsepower to an impressive 741, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts.
Toyota’s work on hydrogen combustion aims to maintain the exhilarating driving experience of traditional internal combustion engines while significantly reducing emissions.
The GR Yaris H2 gained further attention when actor Rowan Atkinson took it for a test drive at the 2022 Ypres Rally, highlighting its real-world capabilities.
Although specifics regarding range and future production remain uncertain, the GR Yaris H2 reinforces Toyota’s commitment to developing innovative hydrogen-powered performance vehicles that could redefine both motorsports and sustainable transportation.
4. Honda CR-V FCEV
The 2025 Honda CR-V FCEV marks a major advancement in Honda’s hydrogen strategy, building on over a decade of fuel cell research. Unlike its predecessor, the Clarity Fuel Cell, this new model incorporates a battery pack alongside its hydrogen fuel cell system, enabling bidirectional charging.
This feature allows the vehicle to serve as a backup power source, expanding its functionality beyond transportation. By integrating hydrogen power with battery technology, Honda aims to enhance efficiency and versatility, making fuel cell vehicles more practical for everyday use.
While Honda has yet to reveal key specifications like battery capacity, tank size, and real-world driving range, the CR-V Hydrogen is expected to launch later this year in the U.S. and Japan.
It will compete with other fuel cell vehicles like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo, positioning itself as a strong contender in the evolving hydrogen market.
Though some details remain unclear, the CR-V Hydrogen represents Honda’s continued commitment to alternative fuel solutions and the potential for a more sustainable automotive future.
5. 2024 Hyundai Nexo
The 2024 Hyundai Nexo is a hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that blends cutting-edge technology with a sleek, futuristic design. First introduced in 2018, the Nexo has evolved into one of the most advanced hydrogen SUVs on the market.
The 2024 model features a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain that delivers 161 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, paired with a single-speed reduction gear and front-wheel drive.
With a driving range between 354 and 380 miles on a single fill, the Nexo offers a practical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline and battery-electric vehicles.
Beyond its efficient powertrain, the Nexo is packed with modern features that enhance both comfort and convenience. The spacious cabin includes a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, creating a user-friendly driving experience.
Hyundai also equips the Nexo with its SmartSense driver-assistance suite, offering advanced safety features. With a starting MSRP of $60,135, the Nexo positions itself as a premium hydrogen SUV, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to sustainable mobility without compromising on technology or comfort.
6. Hyperion XP-1
The Hyperion XP-1 is a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered supercar that combines futuristic design with advanced technology. First introduced in August 2020, this American-made vehicle captured global attention with its striking aesthetics, including V-doors, a sleek low-profile body, and extensive glass elements.
It made a public appearance at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, where its innovative hydrogen fuel cell system set it apart from traditional electric and gasoline-powered hypercars.
With an astonishing 2,038 horsepower, the XP-1 achieves a 0-60 mph time of just 2.25 seconds and a top speed of 221 mph. Its powertrain features hydrogen fuel cells, supercapacitors, and four electric motors, incorporating hydrogen storage technology originally developed by NASA.
Hyperion plans to produce only 300 units of this exclusive vehicle, with custom orders already open, signaling a bold step toward the future of high-performance, hydrogen-powered mobility.
7. Toyota Hilux Hydrogen
The Toyota Hilux Hydrogen prototype represents an intriguing step toward zero-emission pickup trucks, though details remain scarce. Designed to test the adaptability of Toyota’s second-generation Mirai fuel cell technology in a rugged truck platform, the project was funded by the UK government with plans for limited production in 2023.
However, there have been no recent updates regarding its development or potential release, leaving enthusiasts and industry experts eager for more information.
While official specifications have yet to be revealed, initial expectations suggest an all-wheel-drive system, competitive power and torque, and a long-range capability similar to the Mirai’s 402-mile estimate.
Despite the mystery surrounding the Hilux Hydrogen, its existence highlights Toyota’s ongoing commitment to alternative fuel solutions.
Alongside other hydrogen-powered prototypes like the Hydrogen HiAce, which is currently being tested in Australia, the Hilux Hydrogen showcases Toyota’s efforts to explore clean energy options for the future of commercial and consumer vehicles.
8. NamX HUV
The NamX HUV aims to revolutionize hydrogen mobility by introducing an innovative refueling system that combines a permanent hydrogen tank with six removable capsules.
Designed by the renowned Pininfarina, this hydrogen-powered SUV offers a fresh approach to clean energy transportation. By integrating modular hydrogen capsules, NamX seeks to address the challenges of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, making fuel cell vehicles more practical and accessible to a wider audience.
Performance-wise, the NamX HUV comes in two trims: a base model with 300 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, and a top speed of 124 mph, while the GTH trim boosts output to 500 horsepower, reaching 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
NamX’s vision extends beyond just the vehicle, with plans for home capsule delivery and dedicated hydrogen refueling stations to support widespread adoption.
If successful, this approach could significantly accelerate the transition to hydrogen-powered transportation by eliminating one of its biggest hurdles—refueling accessibility.
9. Land Rover Defender FCEV
Jaguar Land Rover is actively exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology as part of its commitment to achieving zero tailpipe emissions by 2036.
One of its key initiatives, Project Zeus, focuses on developing a hydrogen-powered version of the Land Rover Defender. This prototype is designed to combine the rugged off-road capabilities of the Defender with the efficiency and sustainability of hydrogen fuel cells.
With a 90 kW fuel cell, two 147 kW electric motors, and a 16.7 kWh high-output battery, the Defender FCEV aims to deliver strong performance while maintaining its adventurous spirit.
To advance this project, Jaguar Land Rover has secured partial funding from the UK’s Advanced Propulsion Center and partnered with industry leaders like AVL, Delta Motorsport, and Marelli Automotive Systems.
While the prototype is still in development, the Defender FCEV represents a significant step toward integrating hydrogen technology into off-road vehicles.
However, the company has not yet announced when the hydrogen-powered Defender will be available for public use, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting further updates.
10. Riversimple Rasa
The Riversimple Rasa is an innovative hydrogen-powered concept car designed for maximum efficiency. Capable of traveling 300 miles on just 1.5 kg of hydrogen, it far surpasses the typical hydrogen vehicle range per kilogram.
The car features a lightweight design, an ultracapacitor system for improved energy storage, and a modest 0-60 mph time of 9.7 seconds. With a top speed of 60 mph, the Rasa is intended for urban and short-distance travel rather than high-speed performance, making it an eco-friendly alternative for everyday commuting.
Debuting at the 2016 London Motor Show, the Rasa quickly gained attention, even attracting King Charles III for a test drive in Wales.
Riversimple originally planned to produce 5,000 units annually starting in 2023, but there have been no confirmed updates on its commercial release.
Instead, the company currently offers only a waiting list, leaving potential customers uncertain about when or if they will have the opportunity to own this groundbreaking hydrogen vehicle.
Hydrogen-powered vehicles are steadily carving a niche in the automotive industry, offering an alternative to traditional electric vehicles with faster refueling times and longer ranges.
Despite the challenges of infrastructure and production, leading automakers and startups alike continue to push the boundaries of hydrogen technology.
From high-performance supercars to practical SUVs and rugged trucks, these upcoming models highlight the growing potential of fuel cell vehicles in various segments.
As advancements in hydrogen storage, refueling infrastructure, and fuel cell efficiency continue, the industry may soon see wider adoption of this clean energy technology.
While many of these vehicles are still in prototype or limited production stages, their development signals a promising shift toward sustainable mobility. If hydrogen technology gains the necessary support and investment, it could become a crucial component in the future of zero-emission transportation.
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