Korean firm Hyundai has this week announced that they will become the world’s first auto company to action the global production of a zero emissions vehicle, the hydrogen ix35. They have already snapped up contracts with local councils across Denmark and Sweden to lease the cars and aim to have 1000 vehicles operating by 2015. Production of the ix35 fuel cell will begin in December from the firm’s factory in Ulsan.
"The ix35 Fuel Cell is the pinnacle of Hyundai's advanced engineering and our most powerful commitment to be the industry leader in eco-friendly mobility," said Woong Chul Yang, head of Hyundai R&D.
"Zero-emissions cars are no longer a dream. Our ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle is here today, and ready for commercial use."
Hyundai’s vision for becoming the leading eco-friendly automobile firm is clear as they look to distribute 10,000 units of the ix35 beyond 2015. This might seem a limited amount but it’s by far one of the biggest eco-friendly unit commitments to date.
How does it work?
Hyundai has patented hydrogen technology which will continue to be developed into the new ix35 fuel cell. Put simply, the cell converts hydrogen into electricity which in turn, powers the motor. The power and speed of the hydrogen refuelling system means that the car can reach 100km/h in just twelve and a half seconds with a max speed of 160km/h with a range of 588km. Those who have had the pleasure of driving the vehicle have so far said that there is very little difference in performance when compared to its petrol engine sister.
The ix35 represents around 15 years of research and development from Hyundai’s engineering centre in Mabuk, Korea. Currently test vehicles have car have registered more than 3.2 million km of road testing in Europe, Korea and the US.
Cost?
The estimated cost of buying the vehicle is currently undisclosed by the Hyundai, as are the European rental contracts. However the cost of running the ix35 is around £8.50 over 100km with a full recharge of hydrogen costing around £50.00.
The ix35 proved its worth earlier this year when the vehicle was tested with a drive from Oslo to Monaco, travelling through Denmark, Germany and France over 5 days. The car set a world record drive for a hydrogen powered vehicle and even more impressive is the fact that refuels only took place via existing fuel stations over the 2260km travelled.
This post was kindly provided by online car breakers Breakeryard.com.
Richard has been writing about cars since 2008. His favourite motoring topics include the latest fuel-saving technology but also high performance cars – he's conflicted like that. When he doesn't have his writing (or marketing) hat on, he can be found traipsing around the British countryside. Or drinking a skinny latté.
John Bailo
I just finished taking a bike ride to the gym to go swimming. Healthful right? No..my mouth still tastes all the exhaust from the cars and school buses.
If ever there was a global technology that needs to be fast tracked -- it's hydrogen and fuel cell vehicles.
October 24, 2012
Faye Sunderland
John,
I quite agree with you. As a keen cyclist myself, I'm often disturbed by the thought of how much filth I'm breathing in when I'm doing 'healthy' exercise. It actively puts me off making longer road journeys on the bike..which means I join the filth-makers and drive. Definitely need clean alternatives.
October 24, 2012