2016 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell launches with new features and colours
Hyundai updates its hydrogen-powered Tucson Fuel Cell for 2016, adding new paint options, extra interior features and maintaining its lease price for US customers.
Hyundai has confirmed a series of updates for the 2016 Tucson Fuel Cell, its hydrogen-powered SUV, ahead of the model’s continued rollout in the United States. The new model year brings minor changes to the specification, with Hyundai aiming to keep the vehicle appealing to early adopters of fuel cell technology.
For 2016, the Tucson Fuel Cell receives two new exterior colours: Chromium Silver and Hydro Blue. Inside, the SUV now features a digital compass integrated into the rear-view mirror and HomeLink connectivity, which allows drivers to operate compatible garage doors and security systems from the car. These additions come without any increase in the lease price, which stays at $499 per month for 36 months with a $2,999 down payment, mirroring the previous year’s terms.
The Tucson Fuel Cell remains available only in Southern California, where hydrogen refuelling infrastructure is most developed. Hyundai has indicated that as more hydrogen stations come online, it will look to expand the model’s regional availability. The company continues to position hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as a practical alternative to battery electric cars, highlighting the Tucson’s quick refuelling time and range comparable to petrol models.
Fuel cell technology and rivals
The Tucson Fuel Cell is part of a small but growing segment of hydrogen-powered vehicles, competing with models such as the Toyota Mirai and Honda’s upcoming fuel cell saloon. Hyundai has stated its commitment to advancing the technology and has previously announced plans to introduce an all-new hydrogen SUV in 2017. The company also continues to participate in research projects exploring the wider potential of fuel cell vehicles, including their use as mobile power plants.
- Toyota Mirai: direct rival in the US and Japan
- Honda Clarity Fuel Cell: next-generation competitor due for launch
- Hyundai’s next-gen hydrogen SUV expected in 2017
For buyers considering a hydrogen vehicle, the Tucson Fuel Cell’s limited regional availability and dependence on hydrogen infrastructure remain the main barriers. Hyundai’s decision to hold pricing steady while adding equipment reflects the competitive pressure from other manufacturers and the need to incentivise early adoption in a challenging market.
