Under the show theme of “See What's Driving the Future" Hyundai presents its third-generation hydrogen fuel cell concept in a sleek looking 2+2 crossover vehicle. Previously, Hyundai fuel cell prototypes utilized larger SUV platforms to house the cumbersome hydrogen technology. However, Hyundai states they have taken a major step towards commercialization of the technology due to its reduced sized without sacrificing safety, comfort and performance. Hyundai hopes to have hydrogen powered fuel cell vehicles reaching series production within the next ten years.
Noticeable design features include, LED headlamps, panoramic windshield/roof, opposed edge hinged rear door (aka suicide doors) and an interesting arrangement between the door handles and multiple belt lines.
Hyundai Motor Corporation will unveil the i-Blue Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle at the 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show which opens on September 13. The i-Blue demonstrates the company's commitment to developing environmentally responsible transportation.
Hyundai's new hydrogen-powered, zero-emission concept, the i-Blue Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle was developed at Hyundai's Design and Technical Center in Chiba, Japan. The all-new i-Blue platform is tailored to incorporate Hyundai's third-generation fuel cell technology, currently being developed at Hyundai's Eco-Technology Research Institute in Mabuk, Korea.
In keeping with this year's show theme, "See What's Driving the Future," which focuses on sustainability and climate protection, the i-Blue signifies a major step towards the commercialization of Hyundai fuel cell vehicles. Unlike its predecessors which were built on SUV platforms, the i-Blue features a new 2+2 crossover utility vehicle (CUV) body type.
"The i-Blue is Hyundai's first-ever model designed from the ground up to incorporate fuel cell technology, marking a tremendous leap forward for our R&D program," said Dr. Hyun-Soon Lee, president of research and development. "Our engineering team has successfully designed a more compact fuel cell vehicle, while still realizing the safety, comfort, convenience and driving range of a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle."
Hyundai is making tremendous efforts to reach mass production of hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles a reality in the next decade.
