Hyundai and Plus propose hydrogen-autonomous truck network

Hyundai Motor Company and autonomous driving technology firm Plus have presented a joint concept at the 2025 Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Anaheim, California. The concept involves combining Hyundai’s hydrogen-powered XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks with Plus’s autonomous driving software, SuperDrive. The companies state that this partnership is intended to support the development of a scalable, hydrogen-powered freight transportation network in the United States.

According to Hyundai Motor, the integration of its hydrogen fuel cell trucks with autonomous capabilities is intended to improve freight efficiency and road safety. Plus emphasized the potential environmental and operational benefits of combining hydrogen power with automation. The concept highlights the use of autonomous hydrogen trucks to reduce emissions, streamline long-haul transport operations, and gradually develop a supporting infrastructure.

A video released at the event outlined a proposed framework for deploying the vehicles along frequently used hub-to-hub freight corridors. The strategy includes a phased infrastructure rollout, starting with select high-traffic routes. It suggests that an increase in demand for hydrogen fuel will help justify investments in strategically located refueling stations. As more routes are added, the companies expect that infrastructure development will continue, reinforcing both vehicle adoption and cost efficiency.

Hyundai’s XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, which offers zero-tailpipe emissions and is designed for long-haul usage, is positioned by the company as well-suited for this application due to attributes such as fast refueling times, reduced maintenance requirements, and lower noise levels.

Hyundai has already implemented hydrogen truck operations in the United States. As part of the NorCAL ZERO Project, 30 XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks are in operation at the Ports of Oakland and Richmond. Since their deployment in September 2023, the trucks have accumulated approximately 450,000 miles in service. In Georgia, Hyundai is also running 21 XCIENT trucks for plant logistics at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America. This fleet uses hydrogen produced and dispensed on-site and supports about half of the plant’s internal logistics. The initiative is part of the HTWO Logistics program in collaboration with GLOVIS America. Hyundai has stated its intent to expand the HTWO brand globally and develop it as an open collaboration platform.