Hyundai Unveils Latest Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Concept Marking Nearly 30 Years of Development

Hyundai marks nearly three decades of hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) powertrain development by unveiling the Initium concept that also displays an entirely new design language.

Dubbed the "Art of Steel," the automaker says the concept offers a vision of customer-centric design with sustainable mobility.

The SUV, to make its public debuts first at Auto Guangzhou in China and then at the Los Angeles auto show later this month, is targeting a total range of 400 miles (644 km) using a total electric-motor output of 201 hp.

Its name, Latin for ‘first’ or ‘beginning’, reflects its history of being a pioneer in fuel-cell technology. This correspondent visited its hydrogen laboratories in South Korea nearly 20 years ago and drove one of the first on-road test mules, a silent-running Hyundai Santa Fe.

To help with range the model is fitted with a large-capacity hydrogen fuel tank that is possible within the design constraints.

It also features battery-electric vehicle-standard aerodynamic touches including streamlined wheels to reduce drag wrapped in low rolling resistance tires.

Obviously, with hydrogen fuel service stations in many countries still at a fledgling stage, the automaker recognizes the challenge of range anxiety and so builds in a FCEV-specific route planner for fueling and recharging. This feature finds charging/fueling stations along the route without having to access a separate app or make a phone call. Users can check the location accessibility and operating status of an identified service station.

The Initium's battery-electric system also has the capability of vehicle-to-load bi-directional charging to charge a multitude of personal devices and connects directly to a 220V household outlet to feed energy back into the grid.

Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai, says: “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."