Hyundai’s N high-performance sub-brand unveiled a concept design for a hydrogen fuel cell-powered EV dubbed the N Vision 74. This retro-inspired concept car is being called a “hydrogen hybrid” by Hyundai, and its technology is meant to help solve the EV’s biggest problem – range.
The drivetrain concept uses a hydrogen fuel cell to help power its battery pack. The hydrogen fuel cell combines compressed hydrogen, stored in onboard tanks, with oxygen in the atmosphere to create electricity and water. The produced electricity is then used to power the vehicle’s electric motors. According to Hyundai, the concept car’s hydrogen fuel cell can generate 95-kW to be used to power the electric motors or recharge the battery.
The Hyundai N Vision 74 uses a 64.2-kWh battery pack and 4.2-kilograms of hydrogen to power its dual motors for a claimed range of 373 miles – when driven modestly. Total output from its electric motors is 580-hp and 664 lb.-ft of torque, giving the Hyundai N Vision 74 a zero to 60 sprint time of four seconds, reaching speeds over 155 mph. Moreover, adding a hydrogen fuel cell aims to reduce charging times for EVs. The hydrogen tanks are stored in the car’s trunk while the fuel cell is located under the hood. The T-shaped battery pack is behind the front seats to keep the heaviest part of the vehicle in the center. The Hyundai N Vision 74 is stated to be rear-wheel drive even though it uses dual motors.
Regarding styling, the online car community has been raving about the Hyundai N Vision 74 retro-styling. Hyundai stated that the concept car’s inspiration came from its Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed 1974 Pony Coupe concept car, another design beloved by car enthusiasts. Rendered photos of the N Vision 74 paint a 1980s sports car that underwent a cyberpunk restoration. Currently, the Hyundai N Vision 74 is only a concept meant to showcase its hydrogen hybrid technology. However, we hope to see elements of the N Vision 74 design aesthetic in future models.
For more from Hyundai, see the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6.
