TUSTIN, Calif. – On Tuesday, a California Hyundai dealership had the unique opportunity to hand over the keys to Hyundai’s first mass-produced Tucson Fuel Cell CUV in a ceremony with Hyundai executives and Timothy Bush, the first Hyundai Fuel Cell customer.

This sale represents the first time that retail consumers are able to lease a mass-produced, federally-certified hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, currently available at three locations in southern California. Leases on the vehicle are $499 per month and include unlimited free hydrogen refueling at locations throughout the state and Hyundai’s At Your Service Valet Maintenance.

“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, in a press release. “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.”

For more on the past, present and future of fuel cell technology, read the Fuels Institute's “Tomorrow’s Vehicles” report.