Hyundai has unveiled its latest hydrogen fuel cell concept vehicle, the INITIUM, at an event in South Korea, with a projected range of over 650km (403 miles).
The concept vehicle has a targeted driving range of more than 403 miles, a maximum motor output of 150 kW and aims to set new standards in the hydrogen vehicle market.
The concept provides a glimpse into Hyundai's future production FCEV, slated for release in the first half of 2025 and marks the debut of the company's new "Art of Steel" design language.
Hyundai has equipped the concept with large hydrogen fuel tanks to boost range and could rival some of the most popular premium electric vehicles currently on the market.
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The INITIUM will be showcased further next month
HYUNDAI
Hyundai plans to showcase the INITIUM at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November, with the production version set to launch in the first half of 2025.
HTWO, Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated hydrogen value chain business brand, was first launched in January at CES 2024 at the event in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The INITIUM's iconic design integrates the HTWO symbol, representing Hyundai's vision for a hydrogen-driven future.
The vehicle also features aerodynamic wheels and low rolling resistance tyres to enhance efficiency, in addition to an FCEV-specific design cue.
Commenting on the concept, Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said: "Hyundai Motor’s clear, unwavering commitment to hydrogen over the past 27 years is rooted in our belief in its potential as a clean, accessible and therefore fair energy source for everyone.
"We are dedicated to pioneering a future where hydrogen is used by everyone, in everything, and everywhere. We invite you to join us on this journey."
Hyundai has equipped the INITIUM with an FCEV-specific route planner, addressing a key concern for potential buyers: charging infrastructure. This feature allows users to easily plot optimal routes and locate charging stations.
The concept also includes a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature, enabling it to power household appliances and personal devices. An outdoor terminal connects directly to a 220V household outlet, transforming the INITIUM into a potential energy supplier.
The concept will have a range of more than 400 miles
HYUNDAI
Safety features include a multi-skeleton structure, side body reinforcement, and nine airbags, aiming for top-tier collision safety performance globally.
SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, presented the INITIUM concept and the "Art of Steel" design language at the unveiling and highlighted the challenges involved in crafting the vehicle.
He added: "Our challenge began from the manufacturing stage, where we pushed the formability of steel to the extreme to create a form of art.
"With INITIUM, we’ve crafted a more SUV-like design that is both solid and safe, reflecting our dedication to our customers through 'customer-centric design'."
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Production models are expected to be unveiled next year
HYUNDAI
Hyundai already has one of the most popular hydrogen fuel cell passenger vehicles on the market at present with the Nexo. It has an impressive driving range of 414 miles and takes just a few minutes to refuel.
The second-generation fuel cell has the "world's highest system efficiency" by consuming as little as one kilogram of hydrogen per 62 miles.
