Hyundai debuts hydrogen fuel cell SUV
South Korean car manufacturer says production vehicle will be released early next year
Hyundai has offered an early look at its next-generation fuel cell vehicle ahead of the model’s official launch in early 2019.
A “near-production-ready” version of the hydrogen-powered SUV was showcased at a special event in Seoul, and provided an in-depth look at the as-yet unnamed vehicle’s futuristic design.
The South Korean aims to give the new model a driving range of 497 miles on a single charge based on New European Driving Cycle standards (NEDC).
Hyundai has said that the new model is now 20 per cent more powerful than its predecessor, the ix35 Fuel Cell, with maximum output now standing at 161bhp.
Work has also been done to improve the new fuel cell vehicle’s ability to start in cold temperatures, with Hyundai saying the vehicle’s architecture has been optimised to enable it to be started at -30 degrees Celsius.
The manufacturer also promises that the production model will feature a wide range of advanced driver assistance technologies, the details of which will be released in January along with the vehicle’s official model name.
Lee Ki-sang, senior vice president of Hyundai Motor Group’s Eco Technology Centre, said: “With exceptional efficiency, serene styling, and uncompromised performance, our next-generation fuel cell SUV is the true epitome of an eco-friendly vehicle of the future.
“Hyundai Motor will take lead in developing and producing green energy vehicles that would ultimately complement a near-zero-emission society.”
The new fuel cell SUV will spearhead Hyundai’s plans to ramp up its development of low emissions vehicles. In collaboration with sister company Kia, the South Korean manufacturer aims to introduce 31 “eco-friendly” models to global markets by 2020.
Hyundai is set to launch the electric version of its new Kona compact SUV next year, which will be followed by the luxurious Genesis EV in 2021 and a long-range, 310-mile EV after 2021.
