It envelops the fuel-cell powertrain into a futuristic-looking body
Hyundai's Geneva Motor Show stand has a strong eco-conscious vibe this year, with the star being the FE Fuel Cell Concept.
Described as the next step for Hyundai toward realizing its ambition of creating a zero-emission Hydrogen Energy Society, the design study is part of the company's eco-vehicle program that will see at least 14 new "green" models introduced by 2020.
The concept vehicle's name stands for Future Eco, and its shape is inspired by nature and water — which is the car's only emission, by the way. Hyundai describes its design as "clean and calm," reflecting its non-polluting nature.
Highlights include the sleek headlights, suicide doors, L-shaped DRLs and taillights, as well as the stylish rear air foil and integrated vents that enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The all-blue interior is dominated by three large displays, a sleek center console, and a slim dashboard.
What you can't see is an internal air humidifier that recycles water emitted by the car's clean hydrogen energy circulation for a more comfortable cabin environment.
The FE features Hyundai's fourth-generation of hydrogen fuel cell technology that is 20 percent lighter and 10 percent more efficient that in the Tucson/ix35 Fuel Cell. The power density of the fuel cell stack is increased by 30 percent, leading to a longer driving range — more than 800 km (497 miles).
The vehicle is fitted with portable battery packs (charged by the car's energy output) that can power passenger devices. Another convenient feature is the trunk's integrated storage and charging space for an electric scooter.
Hyundai says we'll see bits of the FE Fuel Cell Concept on a future SUV Fuel Cell model scheduled to launch in 2018. That model will have an hydrogen-powered range as well as advanced "Hyundai Smart Sense" driver assistance technologies.