Hydrogen-powered vehicles have yet to gain widespread popularity as an eco-friendly alternative in the transportation sector, but Hyundai aims to change this with increased investment in the technology and its latest hydrogen-powered SUV concept, the Initium.
Hyundai announced that production of the hydrogen SUV is set to begin in the first half of next year. The Initium is designed to travel up to 404 miles on a single refuel and includes a backup electric mode that can be recharged from a standard household outlet. The vehicle is set to make its public debut at both the LA Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in China next month. Availability in specific markets, including the U.S., has not yet been confirmed.
Though currently a concept, Hyundai appears committed to fast-tracking the Initium to consumers, despite hydrogen’s slower adoption compared to electric vehicles. The South Korean automaker has committed $4 billion to advance its hydrogen vehicle technology and infrastructure, working towards its goal of complete carbon neutrality by 2045 with models like the Initium and the Ioniq 5, an electric vehicle introduced last year.
While hydrogen fuel presents a potential alternative to gasoline, it still faces challenges in competing with electric vehicles, especially with the limited infrastructure. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are only 59 hydrogen fueling stations in the U.S., most located in California. Presently, only a few manufacturers, including Hyundai (Nexo SUV) and Toyota (Mirai), offer hydrogen-powered options, while Honda discontinued its Clarity hydrogen model in 2021.
