Stellantis has axed its hydrogen fuel cell development program, canceling the planned launch of Pro One hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. The automotive giant cites poor market economics and infrastructure gaps as key reasons for abandoning the technology.
Stellantis announced on July 16 in Amsterdam that it would halt production of its hydrogen-powered Pro One commercial vehicles. Manufacturing was scheduled to begin this summer at facilities in Hordain, France, and Gliwice, Poland. The company will now focus exclusively on battery-electric and hybrid powertrains for its commercial vehicle lineup.
The automaker points to three critical challenges that made hydrogen economically unviable: insufficient refueling infrastructure, excessive capital requirements, and inadequate consumer incentives. Stellantis does not expect hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicles to achieve market penetration before the end of the decade.
"Hydrogen Remains Niche Technology"
Jean-Philippe Imparato, Chief Operating Officer for Enlarged Europe, delivered a blunt assessment: "The hydrogen market remains a niche segment with no prospects for medium-term economic sustainability." He emphasized that Stellantis would secure competitiveness through "clear decisions" and meet customer expectations with electric and hybrid passenger and commercial vehicles.
European CO₂ regulations are driving Stellantis to realign its strategy. The company is redirecting hydrogen R&D resources to other projects. Production facilities will not face job cuts, according to the press release. Stellantis has initiated discussions with shareholders of Symbio, its fuel cell joint venture with Michelin and Faurecia, to assess market impacts and explore alternatives for the partnership.
