Hyundai Unveils Bold Initium Hydrogen FCEV Concept Showcasing New Design Language

INITIUM, a hydrogen fuel cell electric concept vehicle with a range of over 650 km and 150 kW output, previewing a new production FCEV set for 2025. It will be showcased at the LA Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou this November.

Seoul, South Korea- Hyundai Motor Company., unveiled its INITIUM hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) concept at the ‘Clearly Committed’ event in Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang. The name INITIUM, meaning ‘beginning’ in Latin, symbolizes Hyundai’s pioneering role in hydrogen energy and its vision for a hydrogen society. This concept showcases 27 years of hydrogen technology development and previews a new production FCEV set to launch in the first half of next year, reinforcing Hyundai's commitment to sustainability. 

This unique hydrogen fuel cell-powered SUV concept also marks the debut of Hyundai Motor’s new design language – called ‘Art of Steel’ – embodying the character of HTWO, Hyundai Motor Group’s (the Group) dedicated hydrogen value chain business brand. 

Mr. Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Hyundai Motor’s clear, unwavering commitment to hydrogen over the past 27 years is rooted in our belief in its potential as a clean, accessible and therefore fair energy source for everyone. We are dedicated to pioneering a future where hydrogen is used by everyone, in everything, and everywhere. We invite you to join us on this journey.” 

Hyundai Motor launched its HTWO hydrogen value chain business brand earlier this year at CES 2024, highlighting how Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung is focusing the Group’s efforts on hydrogen energy. 

Unveiling the vision for HTWO Grid – an end-to-end hydrogen energy solution that spans production, storage, transportation and utilization – Executive Chair Chung expressed the Group’s commitment to actively participate in the development of a hydrogen society and underscored the Group’s capabilities to achieve this goal, highlighting that “The shift to hydrogen energy is for future generations.” 

At the unveiling, SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, presented the INITIUM concept and Hyundai’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language. 

"Our challenge began from the manufacturing stage, where we pushed the formability of steel to the extreme to create a form of art," Lee said. “With INITIUM, we’ve crafted a more SUV-like design that is both solid and safe, reflecting our dedication to our customers through 'customer-centric design’.” 

The INITIUM concept features an iconic design that integrates the HTWO symbol, embodying Hyundai's hydrogen vision. Its unique lighting signature blends seamlessly with the bumper, while the SUV-like aesthetic combines urban functionality with outdoor adventure capability. Bold lines, a solid structure, and 21-inch wheels enhance its rugged look, complemented by a practical roof rack for diverse lifestyles.

The INITIUM concept enhances hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) performance, comfort, and safety. It boasts a driving range of over 650 km, thanks to large hydrogen tanks and aerodynamic wheels. With an electric motor output of 150 kW, it offers smooth acceleration and urban driving. The spacious interior features ample room for families, while the FCEV-specific route planner simplifies finding charging stations. INITIUM also includes a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature for powering appliances. Safety is prioritized with a reinforced structure and nine airbags. Hyundai will showcase INITIUM at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou, with a production launch planned for the first half of 2025. 

Hyundai Motor showcased its 27-year history of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) development during the unveiling of INITIUM and a Hydrogen Heritage Talk. The company initiated ambitious projects like Mercury and Polaris to enhance fuel cell technology. In 2005, it established the Mabuk Environmental Technology R&D Center, where Honorary Chairman Mong-Koo Chung encouraged bold engineering innovation. Hyundai became the first automaker to mass-produce hydrogen FCEVs, launching its first dedicated model in 2018. These milestones underscore Hyundai's commitment to advancing a sustainable hydrogen future.