2023 Hyundai Nexo

I am submitting this complaint to report serious safety, usability, and infrastructure-related issues concerning my Hyundai NEXO hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. The vehicle has become unsafe and practically unusable due to multiple technical problems, lack of service support, and the widespread unavailability of hydrogen fueling infrastructure in the Bay Area of California. These issues collectively present safety concerns not only for me as the driver but potentially for other Hyundai NEXO owners who may be experiencing similar problems. I purchased the Hyundai NEXO with the expectation that it would provide reliable transportation supported by Hyundai’s service network and the hydrogen fueling infrastructure promoted alongside the vehicle. As a consumer, I was attracted to the NEXO because of its innovative fuel cell technology, environmental benefits, and Hyundai’s commitment to zero-emission vehicles. However, my ownership experience has been extremely difficult and concerning due to both vehicle performance defects and the lack of support required to maintain and operate the vehicle safely. One of the most concerning issues with the vehicle is that the regenerative braking system does not appear to function properly. Regenerative braking is an important component of the NEXO’s efficiency and safety systems. When it does not operate correctly, the vehicle does not slow down in the expected way, and the energy recovery system that is supposed to recharge the vehicle’s systems during deceleration does not function as intended. This raises concerns about both vehicle performance and braking predictability. Another significant issue is that the vehicle’s speed appears to be limited and does not go beyond approximately 60 miles per hour. This limitation occurs even under normal driving conditions where higher speeds are required, such as highway travel. Being unable to exceed approximately 60 mph presents a safety

The vehicle has a material operability limitation related to its fuel/propulsion system that was not disclosed at the time of sale. After purchase, the vehicle’s real-world operation is materially restricted due to fuel availability and system limitations that prevent reliable use as represented. The limitation affects the ability to operate the vehicle predictably and as intended. This issue is not cosmetic or preference-based. It affects normal vehicle operation and reliability. The condition is ongoing and reproducible. The dealer and manufacturer have been contacted. The condition has not been corrected.

A THERMALLY-ACTIVATED PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE (TPRD) THAT VENTS HYDROGEN GAS TO THE ATMOSPHERE TO PREVENT OVER-PRESSURIZATION OF THE HYDROGEN FUEL TANK IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING IN THE LOCAL AREA AROUND THE HYDROGEN FUEL TANKS. THE TPRD IS DESIGNED TO VENTTHROUGH A GLASS BULB-TYPE RELEASE MECHANISM THAT FRACTURES WHEN A SPECIFICOPERTAING TEMPERATURE IS REACHED. THE GLASS BULB-TYPE MECHANISM IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES COULD PREMATURELY FRACTURE DUE TO MICROCRACKS IN THE GLASS, WHICH COULD LEAD TO INADVERTENT DISCHARGE OF HYDROGEN GAS DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION. HYDROGEN GAS LEAKING IN CONFINED AREAS WITH THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SURCE MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE FIRE WHIEL PARKED. THE DEALER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO REPAIR UNTIL MAY 12, 2025