Hyundai Motor’s all-new NEXO hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV has received the highest five-star rating in the latest European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP). The vehicle excelled across all major categories, including adult and child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist technologies. This achievement continues Hyundai’s streak of five-star ratings following its IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and IONIQ 9 electric vehicles.
Hyundai Motor announced on December 14, 2025, that its all-new NEXO hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV has earned the top five-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP safety evaluation. This result underscores the carmaker’s commitment to safety and zero-emission mobility, with the vehicle achieving top scores in adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist technologies.
In adult occupant tests, the passenger compartment remained stable during the frontal offset test, providing good protection for the knees, femurs, and all critical body regions for both driver and passenger. The NEXO also performed strongly in the full-width rigid barrier test, earned maximum points in the side barrier test, and offered effective far-side protection via its center airbag.
Child occupant protection was equally robust, with six- and ten-year-old dummies showing good safeguarding of all critical areas in frontal and side-impact tests. A Hyundai official stated, “The new five-star result underscores our continuous advancement in fuel-cell engineering, crash protection and customer-focused safety technology, setting a benchmark in the global fuel-cell EV segment.”
Established in 1997, Euro NCAP is Europe’s leading independent assessor of vehicle safety, driving improvements in automotive standards worldwide. This milestone highlights Hyundai’s ongoing pursuit of hydrogen technology and safety innovation.
