- The Hyundai Initium has been showcased in concept form but will be officially launched in South Korea in the first half of 2025.
The Hyundai Initium hydrogen car has been officially unveiled, in what is widely seen as a determined bid by the South Korean brand to expand its powertrain options in key markets around the world. While Hyundai is looking to gain a bigger stake in the electric vehicle (EV) game, it has also been a strong supporter of hydrogen-powered technology. In this regard, the Hyundai Initium is being touted as a potential gamechanger.
Expected to be launched sometime in 2025, the Hyundai Initium has a drive range of around 650 kilometres. This is slightly better than the 600 kilometers offered by the Hyundai Nexo hydrogen car – which is already sold in several markets. According to a statement from the company, what is unique is that the Hyundai Initium can be connected to the home power grid to use it as a backup power supply source.
Hyundai Initium: what does it look like?
The version of the Hyundai Initium currently revealed is not the final production version. But even in its current form and style, the vehicle's design language appears to be unique in what Hyundai calls the 'Art of Steel'. The design integrates the HTWO symbol, which represents Hyundai Motor's vision for a future powered by hydrogen. The '+' inspired graphic blends with the bumper as part of the Initium's lighting signature, creating a distinctive FCEV (fuel-cell-electric vehicle)-specific design cue marked by unique lighting and solid volumes.
The Concept Hyundai Initium Edition stands on 21-inch alloy wheels and boasts some very prominent character lines all around. The design of the vehicle has a strong aura, which is highlighted by the roof rails on top.
Hyundai Initium: Key Drive Highlights
Hyundai says the development of the Initium essentially focused on three key elements – drive range and power performance, spacious cabin and cargo area, and exceptional safety and convenience features.
It is claimed that a larger fuel tank on the Initium – when compared to the Nexo – allows it an increased range. The electric motor output of 201 bhp comes with additional claims of instant acceleration while the low resistance tires provide a high level of handling.
As far as space is concerned, the Initium has two rows of seating and the second row seats have a large recline angle. The wide body and large rear-door opening angle allow easy access to the rear seat section.
All these highlights will be bundled with a ton of features but since the Hyundai Initium is in concept form, the exact details have not been shared yet.
What has been confirmed, however, is that the Hyundai Initium will be showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November, and the hydrogen car will be positioned to help Hyundai position itself as a hydrogen mobility leader.
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First publication date: 31 October 2024, 09:33 AM IST