Stellantis has discontinued its hydrogen fuel cell development program in Europe, citing that hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicles are unlikely to gain market traction before the end of the decade. The automaker has now cancelled plans for the mass production of its hydrogen-powered Pro One vans, initially slated for rollout this summer at its manufacturing sites in Hordain, France, and Gliwice, Poland.
Stellantis attributes the termination of the program to several key factors, including limited access to hydrogen refueling infrastructure, high capital investment needs, and a lack of strong consumer incentives.
“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.
“The hydrogen market remains a niche segment, with no prospects of mid-term economic sustainability. We must make clear and responsible choices to ensure our competitiveness and meet the expectations of our customers with our electric and hybrid passenger and light commercial vehicles offensive,” Imparato added.
Stellantis had planned to manufacture midsize vans in Hordain, France, and larger models in Gliwice, Poland. The company has confirmed that the suspension of its hydrogen vehicle production will not impact employment at these sites. It also stated that R&D efforts tied to hydrogen fuel cell technology will be redirected toward other initiatives within its broader electrification strategy.
Stellantis says the decision follows a strategic reassessment of hydrogen’s near-term viability in the European light commercial vehicle market. In January 2024, the company announced plans to launch eight fuel cell electric variants of its mid-size and large vans, which were to be part of the Pro One lineup. These included models such as the Citroën e-Jumpy and e-Jumper, Fiat E-Scudo and E-Ducato, Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro and Movano, and Peugeot E-Expert and E-Boxer.
Stellantis is now reviewing its investment in Symbio, the hydrogen fuel cell manufacturer in which it acquired a 33.3% stake in 2023. Symbio is a joint venture with Michelin and Forvia, established to accelerate the production of hydrogen-powered vehicles in Europe and North America.
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