Hyundai has issued a recall for its 2019-2024 Nexo hydrogen-powered SUVs due to a potential safety risk. The automaker is urging owners of these vehicles to park them outside and away from structures to minimize the risk of a fire. This recall is a significant setback for the broader hydrogen vehicle market, which has already faced challenges in gaining traction.
The recall centers around a thermally-activated Pressure Relief Device (TPRD) that is designed to vent hydrogen gas to the atmosphere if the hydrogen fuel tank becomes overpressurized. This mechanism, which uses a glass bulb-type release mechanism, can fracture prematurely due to microcracks in the glass. This could allow hydrogen gas to leak during normal vehicle operation, potentially leading to a fire in a confined space with an ignition source.
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Hyundai has identified 1,545 Nexo models in the United States that are affected by the recall. These vehicles were manufactured between August 10, 2018, and August 25, 2023. The investigation into the issue began in April following reports of hydrogen gas leaks from Nexo models in South Korea. After identifying the cause of the leaks, Hyundai decided to issue a recall for both the US and Canadian markets.
While Hyundai is not aware of any incidents, crashes, or fires related to the fault, it is taking proactive steps to address the safety concern. Dealers and owners will be notified of the recall on December 10. Owners will be instructed to park their vehicles outside until they can take them to a dealer for repairs. During the repair process, a new TPRD made from metal will be installed to replace the faulty glass mechanism.
This recall is a setback for the hydrogen vehicle market, which has been struggling to gain momentum. While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer the potential for zero-emission transportation, concerns about safety, infrastructure, and cost have hindered their widespread adoption. The Hyundai Nexo recall serves as a reminder of the challenges that remain to be addressed before hydrogen vehicles can become a mainstream option.