INITIUM is a Latin word meaning 'beginning' or 'first', representing Hyundai Motor's status as a hydrogen energy pioneer and its commitment to develop a hydrogen society.
INITIUM provides a preview of a new production FCEV that Hyundai Motor plans to unveil in the first half of next year.
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 dedicated hydrogen value chain business brand.
"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," said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. "We are dedicated to pioneering a future where hydrogen is used by everyone, in everything, and everywhere."
What is Hyundai's new 'Art of Steel' design language?
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'."
INITIUM's iconic design integrates the HTWO symbol, representing Hyundai Motor's vision for a future driven by hydrogen. The '+' inspired graphic as part of INITIUM's lighting signature blends with the bumper.
As for performance, INITIUM offers excellent acceleration and smooth overtaking capability. By further developing Hyundai's fuel cell technology the company has increased the output of the stack and enhanced battery capacity, allowing for an electric motor output of up to 150 kW. This ensures drivers experience smooth driving in urban areas and at higher speeds on highways.
The production version of the INITIUM concept is set to launch in the first half of 2025.