Hyundai Motor’s INITIUM hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) concept unveiled at the Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang in Korea provides a preview of the automaker’s new design language as well as a new production model it will launch in the first half of 2025.
‘Art of Steel’ design language
The design language is known as ‘Art of Steel’ and embodies the character of HTWO, Hyundai Motor Group’s (HMG) dedicated hydrogen value chain business brand. The INITIUM concept’s design integrates the HTWO symbol, representing Hyundai Motor’s vision for a future driven by hydrogen.
The ‘+’ inspired graphic as part of the INITIUM’s lighting signature blends with the bumper, creating a distinctive FCEV-specific design cue marked by unique lighting, solid volumes and refined elegance.
The distinct SUV-like aesthetic integrates city living functionality with outdoor adventure capability with its bold lines and solid structure, balancing sturdiness and sophistication. The concept vehicle’s 21-inch wheels complement the overall design, with the vehicle’s rugged roof rack adding practicality for those with both urban and outdoor lifestyles.
Long experience in hydrogen technology
FCEVs are not new to HMG as it was the first automaker to introduce a production FCEV (the NEXO) using hydrogen in 2018 and has accumulated 27 years of experience in hydrogen technology development, making it a pioneer in the field.
The INITIUM’s development focused on 3 primary aspects: superior driving range and enhanced performance, which are key strengths of hydrogen cars; a spacious interior and luggage area, making it ideal for families; and unique convenience and safety features distinctive to hydrogen cars.
One of the biggest advantages of a hydrogen FCEV is long driving range and the flexibility this brings. With the INITIUM, Hyundai Motor has installed large hydrogen fuel tanks to maximize the vehicle’s range, further enhancing the benefits of such a propulsion system.
650 kms range between refuelling
To reduce wind resistance that causes drag, the designers have fitted aerodynamic wheels low rolling resistance tyres. These will contribute to a targeted driving range of more than 650 kms between refuelling.
As for performance, the INITIUM is said to offer excellent acceleration and smooth overtaking capability. By further developing Hyundai’s fuel cell technology, the output of the stack and enhanced battery capacity have been increased, allowing for an electric motor output of up to 150 kW (204 ps).
With a FCEV-specific route planner, the driver will be able to plot an optimal route, finding charging stations along the way without having to access a separate app or make a phone call. Users can check the location accessibility and operating status of an identified charging station, as well as the number of waiting vehicles and therefore the possibility of charging.
Of course, this depends very much on how developed the infrastructure of hydrogen refuelling stations is. At present, many countries are still rushing to grow their electric charging station infrastructure to support and encourage the shift to EVs, and only a few are investing in hydrogen stations.
Mobile powerbank
Like many EVs today, the electrical energy in the fuel cell (created by a reaction with hydrogen) can be used not just to power the vehicle but also power and charge various household appliances and personal devices through the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature. The INITIUM has a port designed to connect directly to a 220V household outlet, making it not just a zero-emissions transporter but also a potential energy supplier.
“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,” said Jaehoon Chang, President & CEO of Hyundai Motor Company.
The INITIUM concept will be displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November.