First Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell Sold Yesterday
The 2015 Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell
Yesterday, Hyundai Motor America announced that the very first Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell left dealership hands. Timothy Bush became the very first owner of the mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicle when he drove it off the lot.
“My family is certainly excited to be doing their part in driving a zero-emission vehicle that benefits the environment, and at the same time, reduces our nation’s dependence on imported fuels,” said Bush. “What’s great about the Tucson CUV is that its day-to-day utility is virtually identical to the gasoline version, so we don’t have to compromise our lifestyle in the process; I can easily fit all of our family’s things in the back. The attractive $499 lease rate with unlimited free hydrogen fuel made the decision to drive a fuel cell even easier.”
Timothy Bush and his family accepting the keys to the very first Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle
In addition to the free hydrogen refueling, lessees of the Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell will receive At Your Service Valet Maintenance.
Currently the hydrogen-powered Tucson is only available at three dealerships in California, but it is the hope of Hyundai—and green enthusiasts everywhere—that this technology catches on and becomes more mainstream.
“Hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles represent the next generation of zero-emission vehicle technology, and we’re thrilled to be a leader in offering the mass-produced Tucson Fuel Cell to our first retail customer,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and chief executive officer, Hyundai Motor America. “The range and refueling speed of our new Tucson Fuel Cell compares favorably with gasoline vehicles, making them a seamless transition for our customers from traditional gasoline vehicles. We’re sure that fuel cell technology will increase the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, and that everyone will benefit. The commitment of the State of California and their support in creating a hydrogen fueling infrastructure has been an important part of our decision to offer this fuel cell vehicle to the public.”
The California Air Resources Board was also happy to see the first Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell leave a dealership lot. Air Resources Board chairman, Mary D. Nichols, commented, “Californians are known for our support of smart innovations, and the Bush family’s decision to become the first Americans to drive the Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle as their family car fits squarely within that proud tradition. These ultra-clean vehicles play a critical role in our efforts to clean the air and meet our climate goals. Fuel cell cars are not vehicles of the future – they’re here now, and we applaud Hyundai for bringing them first to market in California where they are most needed.”
Initially, the Tucson Fuel Cell vehicles will just be offered in the Los Angeles/Orange County region under a 36-month lease term, at $499 a month, with a down payment of $2,999. This price includes unlimited free hydrogen refueling.
“When we spoke with customers about fuel cell vehicles, many wondered about the cost of hydrogen,” explained Zuchowski. “To ease those concerns as the hydrogen refueling network builds out, we decided that covering this cost for these early adopters was appropriate, and consistent with how we like to treat our customers.”
But fear not if you live outside of the L.A. region. Hyundai will begin to release the Tucson Fuel Cell elsewhere as refueling infrastructure is built.
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