The all-new Hyundai NEXO, unveiled at the Seoul Mobility Show in April 2025, presents a compelling vision of the future of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). As a car designer, it's evident that Hyundai’s latest creation strikes a perfect balance between functional engineering and aesthetic appeal. The NEXO’s design reflects the company's deep understanding of both the technical challenges and creative possibilities within the realm of sustainable mobility. The result is a vehicle that not only pushes the boundaries of hydrogen-powered technology but also delivers an exceptional driving experience, thanks to its innovative design elements and enhanced comfort features.
Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ exterior design concept takes the strength and natural formability of steel and transforms it into a sculptural expression of power and elegance. The bold lines and solid structure of the NEXO combine to create a robust yet sophisticated presence on the road. The body’s muscular forms and dynamic surfaces are carefully shaped to convey tension and resilience, making the vehicle look as if it’s in constant motion. This design language is not just a visual statement but a functional one, as the resilient steel helps improve the vehicle's structural integrity and efficiency.
The NEXO's exterior is further defined by the integration of the HTWO lamps at the front, which provide a distinctive, FCEV-specific design cue. These lamps aren’t just a stylistic choice but a symbol of Hyundai's commitment to hydrogen mobility. They blend boldness with refinement, neatly encapsulating the essence of Hyundai’s HTWO hydrogen brand and its overarching message, "Hydrogen for Humanity." The vehicle's rear also features the 4 Dot Lamps, which make the NEXO instantly recognizable, even in low-light conditions, maintaining Hyundai’s signature design language while reinforcing the NEXO's unique identity.
The NEXO is available in six different colors, each chosen to enhance the vehicle’s presence and appeal. One standout option is Goyo Copper Pearl, a rich hue inspired by Korea's natural beauty and culture. This color embodies the essence of ‘Koreanism’, with a deep, serene tone that shifts subtly depending on the light, thanks to Hyundai’s advanced three-coat paint process. The color’s multidimensional effect elevates the NEXO’s distinctiveness, creating a striking visual presence on the road. Other colors, like Ocean Indigo Matte and Ecotronic Gray Pearl, offer a more contemporary, urban look, balancing sophistication with bold character.
Inside the NEXO, the focus shifts to comfort and practicality. The cabin is designed to provide a spacious and luxurious environment, with ample room for passengers and their belongings. The curved, driver-centric display at the heart of the dashboard is designed to prioritize usability while offering a sleek, modern aesthetic. This driver-focused design is complemented by an island-type center console, which not only offers generous storage space but also contributes to the open, airy feel of the interior. The seamless integration of digital side mirrors further enhances the cabin's spaciousness, eliminating traditional mirrors and providing a modern, tech-forward look.
The NEXO’s dimensions have been increased compared to its predecessor, resulting in a more comfortable cabin with improved legroom and headroom. The front seats are equipped with Premium Relaxation Seats that feature leg rests, adding an extra layer of comfort for longer journeys. For rear passengers, Hyundai has increased the reclining angle of the seats and added ventilation, ensuring comfort across all seating positions. The rear doors open wider, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle, which is especially beneficial for families and those with mobility concerns.
Storage solutions are a key feature of the NEXO's interior, with smart compartments integrated into the center console, dashboard, and door trims. These spaces allow passengers to store their belongings in an organized, accessible way, enhancing the vehicle’s practicality for daily use. The addition of ambient mood lighting, which adjusts according to the vehicle’s speed, adds to the premium feel of the cabin, creating a calming atmosphere. A vision roof further elevates the sense of space, making the interior feel even more open and inviting.
In terms of sustainability, Hyundai has incorporated eco-friendly materials throughout the NEXO’s interior. These include bio-process leather, bio PU leather, recycled PET fabric, and bio plastic, all of which contribute to reducing the vehicle’s overall environmental footprint. By using these materials, Hyundai has ensured that the NEXO remains at the forefront of sustainable design, without sacrificing luxury or comfort.
Underneath its striking design, the NEXO features a significantly improved powertrain that takes its performance to the next level. With a new fuel cell system and enhanced power electronics, the vehicle now produces a total output of 190 kW, a significant increase from the previous 135 kW. This improvement, combined with an upgraded motor system, reduces the 0-100 km/h acceleration time to 7.8 seconds, a marked improvement from the previous 9.2 seconds. The result is a smoother, more responsive driving experience, whether navigating city streets or overtaking on highways.
The NEXO also boasts a range of aerodynamic improvements, including underbody optimizations and better airflow management, which help reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s advanced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance further enhances the driving experience, ensuring a quiet and refined ride, even on rough roads. Additionally, the e-Handling system optimizes motor torque to improve steering response and stability, ensuring that the NEXO delivers both comfort and performance in all driving conditions.
In terms of convenience, the NEXO incorporates several innovative technologies designed to enhance the driving experience. The FCEV Route Planner helps drivers navigate to hydrogen refueling stations during long trips, providing real-time information about the station’s availability and distance. The ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) system integrates a 12.3-inch driver information cluster with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, supporting over-the-air updates and providing intuitive controls. The system also includes AI voice recognition, enabling seamless interaction with the car’s controls.
Other notable technological features include wireless charging for smartphones, vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, and a digital side mirror system that offers enhanced visibility. The NEXO’s Built-in Cam 2 Plus allows users to record high-quality video footage, while the fingerprint authentication system enables secure, fast access to the vehicle. All of these features combine to make the NEXO not only a technologically advanced vehicle but also one that offers unmatched convenience for its drivers and passengers.
Safety is another area where the NEXO excels. The vehicle features a multi-skeleton structure and ultra-high-strength steel to enhance crash safety. The NEXO is equipped with a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, to protect passengers and ensure peace of mind behind the wheel. These systems work together to minimize the risk of accidents and offer a safe, confident driving experience.
In conclusion, the all-new Hyundai NEXO is a testament to Hyundai’s leadership in both design and sustainable mobility. The combination of striking exterior design, an eco-conscious and comfortable interior, advanced powertrain enhancements, and cutting-edge technology makes the NEXO an ideal choice for consumers seeking a high-performance, hydrogen-powered vehicle that doesn’t compromise on style or practicality. With its forward-thinking approach to both design and functionality, the NEXO is set to redefine the future of hydrogen mobility.
