- Hyundai Initium Concept planned for 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show
- Concept previews hydrogen fuel cell vehicle arriving in first half of 2025
- The production model is expected to replace the Nexo
Hyundai on Thursday gave a first look at a concept vehicle that previews a production-based hydrogen fuel cell vehicle due in the first half of 2025.
The concept is the Initium SUV, and Hyundai plans to formally unveil the vehicle 2024 los angeles auto show later this monthA simultaneous debut in China will take place at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, which is getting underway this month.
Hyundai Initium Concept
The Initium features a boxy, somewhat sturdy design that Hyundai has been gradually introducing into its SUV lineup, a design change that began with 2024 Santa FeThe production version of the Initium concept has already arrived seen testingand will work as replacement for Hyundai Nexo fuel cell vehicleHowever it is unclear whether the Nexo name will be retained.
The name Initium, which stands for the concept as a whole, is derived from a Latin word meaning “beginning” or “first”, and is intended to highlight Hyundai’s position as a leader in the production of fuel cell vehicles . The Nexo has been in production since 2018 and Hyundai has also launched fuel cell-equipped commercial vehicles.
2021 hyundai nexo
Like most modern fuel cell vehicles, the Initium has an electric drive system that draws energy from both the fuel cell and the battery, with the battery typically called upon during high-load conditions. The electric motor here is 201 HPWhich is a 50-hp upgrade compared to the motor in the Nexo. This, Hyundai said, is made possible by a more powerful fuel cell stack and increased battery capacity. In the Nexo, the fuel cell is rated at 127 hp and the battery capacity is 40-kwh.
Hyundai hasn’t provided additional specifications other than a range estimate of just over 400 miles, though the automaker hasn’t revealed what test cycle was used when calculating the estimate. To help maximize range, the vehicle rides on aerodynamically shaped wheels wrapped in low rolling resistance tires.
Hyundai Initium Concept
Hyundai has been developing fuel cells for nearly three decades and has no plans to abandon the technology, despite the lack of hydrogen fuel infrastructure. Companies working on the technology plan to continue offering products to stimulate demand, which energy companies can meet.
Toyota also offers fuel cell vehicles and recently teamed up with BMW to develop next-generation fuel cell technology. BMW plans to offer the technology showroom vehicle Due in 2028,
The Los Angeles Auto Show starts on November 22. Hyundai is also expected to introduce it 2025 Ioniq 9 electric SUV On the incident.