Hyundai has introduced the Initium concept, a groundbreaking hydrogen fuel cell SUV that may hint at the design and technology of the next-generation Nexo. This concept underscores Hyundai’s commitment to hydrogen as a viable clean fuel alternative and showcases a new, advanced powertrain with significantly improved performance over the current Nexo FCEV.
Hyundai Initium Concept: Powertrain
The Initium features a single electric motor producing up to 204 hp, a 40 hp increase over the Nexo, promising a smoother and more refined drive at highway speeds. Hyundai is targeting a range of over 650 km per fill-up, comparable to the Nexo’s official range of 666 km. Notably, the Initium comes with vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, enabling it to power external devices from its battery.
Hyundai Initium Concept: Design and Aerodynamics
The Initium is the first Hyundai model to showcase the brand’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language, which is intended to evoke a sense of solidity and safety, reflecting consumer demand for robust SUVs. Distinctive plus-shaped graphics on the front DRLs and tail lights help differentiate Hyundai’s hydrogen-powered vehicles from its battery-electric and internal combustion models. The design prioritizes aerodynamics, featuring a sleeker, more sloped roofline than other Hyundai SUVs for enhanced efficiency.
A Glimpse of the Future
Hyundai has confirmed that the Initium concept previews a production fuel cell vehicle set for release by next summer, likely the successor to the Nexo. Prototypes with similar styling cues have been seen testing on European roads, suggesting a close resemblance to the final model.
While there’s no confirmation yet on the Initium’s availability in India, Hyundai had previously considered introducing the Nexo to the market, showcasing it in New Delhi in 2018. For now, Hyundai is focusing on bringing the Creta EV to Indian showrooms, expected early next year.
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