PARIS: Stellantis said Wednesday it will discontinue its hydrogen fuel cell technology development program, citing infrastructure limitations, high capital costs and weak consumer incentives. The automaker no longer anticipates widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicles before the decade’s end.
The decision halts the planned launch of the Pro One hydrogen-powered van series, with production previously scheduled to begin this summer in Hordain, France, and Gliwice, Poland.
“In a context where the Company is mobilizing 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.
Imparato described the hydrogen market as a “niche segment” lacking mid-term economic sustainability. He said Stellantis would refocus resources on electric and hybrid vehicles to meet regulatory demands and consumer expectations.
The company confirmed that staffing at production sites would remain unaffected, with hydrogen-related R&D redirected to other initiatives. Stellantis is also in talks with shareholders of Symbio, its hydrogen joint venture, to assess market impacts and ensure long-term viability.