TIME Names Hyundai-PlusAI's XCIENT Fuel Cell Truck One of 2025's Best Inventions.

Thursday, Oct 9, 2025 11:03 am ET1min read

Hyundai Motor Company's XCIENT Fuel Cell Class 8 heavy-duty truck has been named one of TIME's 'Best Inventions of 2025' for revolutionizing long-haul freight with its hydrogen-powered and Level 4 autonomous driving system. The truck is a collaboration with PlusAI and has been deployed globally, shaping the future of freight transportation with sustainable and efficient commercial transport solutions.

Hyundai Motor Company and PlusAI have been recognized as one of TIME's 'Best Inventions of 2025' for their innovative autonomous hydrogen fuel cell truck, the XCIENT Fuel Cell. This Class 8 heavy-duty truck, equipped with PlusAI's Level 4 autonomous SuperDrive™ virtual driver, has been lauded for its transformative impact on long-haul freight transportation.

The XCIENT Fuel Cell, a world-first mass-produced hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck, combines Hyundai Motor's proven fuel cell technology with PlusAI's advanced autonomous driving software. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the freight industry by delivering zero-tailpipe-emission operations and enhanced logistics efficiency.

The truck's autonomous capabilities enable continuous hub-to-hub operations, improving vehicle uptime and road safety, and potentially lowering per-unit operating costs for fleet operators. By integrating these trucks into logistics operations, the industry can transition towards sustainable freight transportation, supporting the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.

Since its global launch in 2020, the XCIENT Fuel Cell has been deployed in ten countries, accumulating nearly 10 million miles. In the U.S., the truck is gaining traction through initiatives like the NorCAL ZERO Project and the HTWO Logistics Initiative, demonstrating its commercial viability in demanding logistics environments.

Hyundai Motor and PlusAI's collaboration underscores their commitment to sustainable and efficient commercial transport solutions. The recognition by TIME highlights the industry-defining potential of their innovative truck, which is poised to shape the future of freight transportation.

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