Futuristic Hyundai FE Fuel Cell Concept previews 2018 model

The Hyundai FE Fuel Cell Concept has been revealed in Geneva with promise it’ll influence a production model due for release next year.

The FE, or Future Eco, concept uses new fourth-generation fuel-cell technology, which Hyundai claims is 20% lighter and 10% more efficient than the system in the ix35 Fuel Cell.

The power density is also 30% higher than the ix35’s, helping to give the concept a 497-mile range.

The SUV’s design is inspired by nature and water – with the latter being the car’s only emission. It has a smooth body that’s been crafted for aerodynamic efficiency and features a slim upper section.

Door handles are located in the middle of the car, suggesting the rear doors open in a suicide fashion to improve access to the back.

Inside, there’s a widescreen display that stretches from behind the steering wheel to the dashboard’s centre, showing powertrain and journey information. There’s also a screen on the car’s centre console, with a touchpad behind for control.

A removable battery is provided with the car to charge external devices, and an electric scooter is stored in the boot, showing that the car is targeting those with active lifestyles.

Vice chairman of Hyundai Woong Chul Yang said “Hyundai Motor has a heritage of building innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles that advance the automotive industry’s environmental progress. Our FE Fuel Cell Concept is an important evolution of our pioneering hydrogen leadership, and moves us closer to our vision for a ‘Hydrogen Society’, where transportation is clean, efficient and enhances the lives of our customers.”

Hyundai said its FE Fuel Cell Concept emphasises its intentions to produce 14 more low-emission vehicles between now and 2020. This point was furthered by the launch of the plug-in Ioniq at Geneva, which joins hybrid and electric variants.

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