Major car brand recalls hydrogen vehicle over fire risk and urges drivers to 'park outside and away from structures'

Documents from the US regulator state that the thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.

As a result, owners are being advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed.

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​Documents state that the TPRD issue that could cause a fire may increase the risk of injury, prompting the recall.

The TPRD is designed to vent gas through a glass bulb-type release mechanism that fractures when a specific operating temperature is reached.

The glass bulb-type mechanism in the subject vehicles could prematurely fracture due to microcracks in the glass, which could lead to the inadvertent discharge of hydrogen gas during normal vehicle operation.

In the recall notice, Hyundai noted how in the event that an issue occurs, a "loud wind-rushing noise" can be heard, as well as a white fog-like cloud near the rear of the vehicle.

The fuel gauge will also lower quickly, while the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will illuminate in the cluster.

The remedy programme states that owners can continue driving their vehicles, although they are advised to park outside and away from structures.

Hyundai will cover the cost of the remedy for free for all affected vehicles, even if the New Vehicle Limited Warranty has expired.

The South Korean brand is going one step beyond by vowing to provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses incurred to obtain a remedy for the recall.

The Nexo is one of the most popular hydrogen fuel cell passenger vehicles on the market, with the Toyota Mirai being the only mainstream hydrogen competitor.

It has a driving range of 414 miles and a filling time of just a few minutes, with many backing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to provide zero emission driving alongside electric cars.

The second-generation fuel cell has the "world's highest system efficiency" by consuming as little as one kilogram of hydrogen per 62 miles.

Owners of the Nexo also benefit from recuperative braking. This sees the electric motor used to slow the vehicle which recuperates energy to charge its battery and maintain a healthy state of charge.

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The price of the Nexo starts from around £65,000, although one model can be found on Auto Trader with less than 10,000 miles on the clock for £29,999.