Stellantis has decided to discontinue its hydrogen fuel cell technology development programme.
“Due to limited availability of hydrogen refueling infrastructure, high capital requirements, and the need for stronger consumer purchasing incentives, the company does not anticipate the adoption of hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicles before the end of the decade,” it said in a statement released last Wednesday (16 July).
As a result, Stellantis will no longer launch its new range of hydrogen-powered Pro One vehicles this year. Serial production was scheduled to start this summer in Hordain, France (medium-sized vans) and Gliwice, Poland (large vans).
“In a context where the company is mobilising 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.
“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.”
This decision will not have an impact on staffing at Stellantis’ production sites, says the company. R&D activities related to hydrogen technology will be redirected to other projects.
The current state of the hydrogen segment also presents financial challenges for various stakeholders. In this context, Stellantis says, it has initiated discussions with the shareholders of Symbio to evaluate the current market consequences and to preserve the best interests of Symbio, in line with their respective obligations.