Hyundai Initium: preview of the next Nexo
The South Korean company is planning the corresponding production vehicle for the first half of 2025, with Hyundai citing an engine output of 150 kW and a range of over 650 kilometres as initial key technical data. “By further developing Hyundai’s fuel cell technology the company has increased the output of the stack and enhanced battery capacity, allowing for an electric motor output of up to 150 kW,” Hyundai writes. “This ensures drivers experience smooth driving in urban areas and at higher speeds on highways.”
The Nexo still had a drive power of 120 kW, while the fuel cell was specified with 95 kW. If the electric motor needs its full power, the buffer battery steps in to bridge the difference.
However, the range specification of up to 650 kilometres is surprising, as the Nexo already achieved a WLTP range of up to 666 kilometres or 566 kilometres according to the EPA range rating. This means that at least the Initium design study ‘only’ achieves the same level as its predecessor, assuming that the 650 kilometres is an estimated WLTP value – the standard cycle in which this range should apply is not specified. So if there is an increase in efficiency compared to the Nexo, which has been on sale since 2018, this will presumably be ‘compensated for’ by the aerodynamics, if you like.
Although Hyundai claims that aerodynamically optimised wheels are intended to reduce air and rolling resistance, the rims are probably one of the few design elements that ensure better air resistance. For the rest of the body, the designers have tended to take their lead from the Ioniq 5 – the Initium has a steep front and all kinds of edges that are not ideal for airflow. The roof rack also looks rather clunky and is unlikely to contribute to low fuel consumption.
Hyundai has not yet published any pictures of the interior. Packaging is often a challenge with fuel cell cars due to the large, cylindrical high-pressure tanks for the hydrogen. Although the press release mentions a spacious and comfortable interior, it is not yet possible to convince oneself of this – the trade fair premiere in a few weeks’ time will probably bring clarity here.
However, an important and interesting feature has been announced: the Initium is to offer a route planner specially developed for hydrogen vehicles, “which addresses one of the biggest challenges for customers: the refuelling infrastructure,” according to Hyundai. The system is designed to plan the optimum route and integrate hydrogen refuelling stations without the need for additional apps. It should also be possible to check the availability and status of the refuelling station (and any waiting times) in real-time.
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