SPIED: Hyundai Tucson FCEV Spotted, Isn't Hydrogen DEAD Though?

One reoccurring theme with alternative fuel vehicles has been what people have called "The death of hydrogen," in the past 12 or so months.

I don't exactly follow that considering there still is continuing research AND Shell recently built its first dedicated hydrogen. In addition, manufacturers are still investing into research and development.

Don't believe me?

Well, the proof is in the pudding. Check out what our contributing photographer, Fred Khaz, snapped in SoCal.

It's a Hyundai Tucson fuel cell electric vehicle that's currently being tested.

Here's what Hyundai's press release has to say about it...


Hyundai's press release follows:

Hyundai Motor America continues its commitment to fuel economy leadership and alternative fuel technology with the introduction of the next-generation hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the Tucson ix Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV). The Tucson ix FCEV makes its U.S. public debut at Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Energy 2011 in Washington, DC and will be on display Feb. 14-16.

“We are excited to share the latest in Hyundai’s fuel cell technology,” said Dr. Tae Won Lim, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor Company’s Fuel Cell Vehicle Group. “After several years of testing, we have identified ways to maximize fuel efficiency without compromising driving experience and powertrain range. We hope to continue this momentum in finding ways to better fuel cell technology and performance.”

Hyundai’s third-generation FCEV is equipped with its newest 100-kilowatt fuel cell system and two hydrogen storage cylinders (700bar) to deliver a substantial improvement in fuel efficiency. The Tucson ix FCEV can travel more than 400 miles on a single fueling, a 76-percent improvement over its predecessor, and a range equal to a gasoline-powered car. It achieves gasoline equivalent fuel efficiency of more than 70 miles per gallon, a 15-percent improvement over the previous version. It can also start in temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius.

In addition to improving the fuel economy and range of the powertrain, Hyundai has also created a more compact power source for the Tucson ix FCEV. Overall volume of the fuel cell system was downsized by 20-percent compared to the previous system via modularization of bulky parts in the fuel cell system including fuel cell stack, balance of plant (BOP), inverter and high voltage junction box.