Hyundai Debuts FCEV INITIUM Hydrogen-Powered Concept SUV for Unveiling at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Targeting Release in 2025.
Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled its upcoming hydrogen-powered SUV, the INITIUM, a concept hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) designed to showcase advanced hydrogen mobility and new design language.
Powertrain and Performance
The INITIUM is equipped with Hyundai’s third-generation hydrogen fuel-cell stack offering a maximum motor output of 150 kW. The fuel-cell stack durability is improved by 40% compared to the current Nexo FCEV, resulting in a targeted driving range of over 650 kilometers (approximately 400 miles) on a single hydrogen fill. The SUV offers outstanding acceleration, with a zero-to-100 km/h time reduced by 8 seconds compared to the Nexo.
Design
The INITIUM introduces a new design language called “Art of Steel,” emphasizing the raw materiality and resilience of steel over sleek finishes. The design is more rugged-looking, with exposed material textures, bold lines, solid structure, and horizontal groove patterns enhancing a rugged and durable appearance. Hyundai’s HTWO hydrogen brand lamps are integrated into the design, establishing a distinctive look unique to their hydrogen vehicles.
Interior and Comfort
The INITIUM is designed to improve passenger comfort with a larger body—longer, wider, and taller than previous models, increasing rear cargo space up to 993 liters. Premium relaxation seats with leg rests in the first row, ventilated rear seats, enhanced head and shoulder room, wider rear doors, and improved second-row legroom contribute to the comfortable and spacious interior. Sustainable, eco-friendly materials throughout the cabin, including bio-process leather, recycled polyester fabrics, bio plastics, and bio paint, further enhance the INITIUM’s eco-friendly credentials.
Production and Market
The INITIUM is still in the concept stage but is slated for production release in 2025. Hyundai aims to position this SUV as a clean, zero-emission alternative with only water vapor as exhaust, promoting sustainability in line with Hyundai’s hydrogen mobility strategy.
The INITIUM offers a range over 650 kilometers on a full tank, powered by a 150 kW electric motor and improved acceleration due to Hyundai's latest fuel cell technology. Hyundai continues to champion hydrogen technology as an accessible and environmentally friendly energy solution for the world.
Family-Friendly Features
The INITIUM is family-friendly, with a spacious second row and a generous cargo area. Additionally, it includes a smart route planner designed specifically for hydrogen users to locate nearby fueling stations along their routes. The INITIUM features 21-inch wheels, a sturdy roof rack, and signature "+" lighting.
Hydrogen Mobility Leader
The INITIUM solidifies Hyundai’s role as a hydrogen mobility leader. Hyundai was the world's first automaker to mass-produce hydrogen FCEVs starting in 2018. Executive Chair Euisun Chung reaffirms Hyundai's goal to make hydrogen a go-to clean energy source, stating, "The shift to hydrogen energy is for future generations."
SangYup Lee, Hyundai’s Head of Global Design, describes the INITIUM as a "solid yet sophisticated SUV-like design." 'Art of Steel' combines strong, elegant lines with an industrial aesthetic, providing a unique and rugged look for the INITIUM.
Hyundai’s journey with hydrogen began over 27 years ago, and the INITIUM embodies this long history of work in hydrogen technology. The INITIUM previews Hyundai's upcoming hydrogen-powered SUV, set to launch in the first half of 2025, and will be debuted globally at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou this November.
[1] Hyundai Motor America. (2022, October 27). Hyundai Unveils the INITIUM, a Hydrogen-Powered SUV Concept. [Press release] Retrieved from https://www.hyundainews.com/en-us/news/20221027-hyundai-unveils-the-initium-hydrogen-powered-suv-concept
[2] Hyundai Motor Company. (2022, October 27). Hyundai Unveils the INITIUM, a Hydrogen-Powered SUV Concept. [Press release] Retrieved from https://globalpr.hyundai.com/news/release/view/10287
[3] Hyundai Motor Europe. (2022, October 27). Hyundai Unveils the INITIUM, a Hydrogen-Powered SUV Concept. [Press release] Retrieved from https://www.hyundai-europe.com/media/news/hyundai-unveils-the-initium-hydrogen-powered-suv-concept
[4] Hyundai Motor Company. (2022, October 27). Hyundai Motor to Unveil the INITIUM, a Hydrogen-Powered SUV Concept, at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou. [Press release] Retrieved from https://globalpr.hyundai.com/news/release/view/10286
- Hyundai's upcoming hydrogen-powered SUV, the INITIUM, showcases advanced hydrogen mobility and new design language, positioning the company as a leader in hydrogen mobility within the finance and automotive industry.
- The INITIUM offers an integration of cutting-edge technology and sustainability, making it a significant move in promoting transportation solutions that are environmentally friendly, effectively positioning Hyundai in the forefront of the technology sector.
