Hydrogen-powered Hyundai N74 concept confirmed for production

Come for the sharp styling, stay for the cutting-edge internals… After two long years Hyundai’s future vision is about to become reality. But why should you be excited?

ICE or electric? It’s the cardinal motoring debate of the decade. And, whether you’re a casual commuter or a dyed-in-the-wool petrolhead, you’ve probably got a preference. But what if it didn’t have to be so black and white? What if there was an intriguing third option to shake things up? 

Hydrogen power might be that dark horse. Offering fast refueling, excellent range, instantaneous electric acceleration and, of course, zero tailpipe emissions, what’s not to like about hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (HFCEVs)? It might sound like an elusive, sci-fi sort of solution, but Hyundai’s N74 is here to argue on the contrary. 

First, let’s be clear: the Korean marque’s wedge-shaped supercar concept certainly isn’t the first to feature fuel-cell technology – Toyota, BMW, Mazda and Honda have all dabbled with H2. However, most of those examples served to prove a point rather than wow with flashy styling. The N74, on the other hand, is a true showstopper.

Under the skin you’ll find two 4.2kg hydrogen tanks, a hydrogen fuel cell, and a conventional 62.4 kWh battery pack that can be fast charged to bolster range. Technically then, Hyundai has actually created a HHFCEV (hybrid hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle). That’s not a pretty acronym, but the benefits are tangible: more range, incredible performance, and the ability to top up your battery using the on-board hydrogen generator. 

Just how fast is it, then? We’ve got no 0-60 mph stat to quote just yet, but with 670 bhp and nearly as much torque, the N74 should leave most cars in its dust. Despite a rumoured 2.5-tonne kerbweight, handling shouldn’t be an issue either. For one, that weight should sit low in the chassis — reducing the centre of gravity. Moreover, Hyundai’s engineers have used the N74 as a test bed for an innovative torque vectoring system which can ‘…significantly improve turning power and handling performance by distributing power to the rear wheels in an extreme way.’ Oh, and it can drift, too.

That leaves just one question: when’s it coming out? We can’t say with certainty. However, we do know it’s definitely on the cards thanks to a subtle mention at a recent investor day in the brand’s native South Korea. As part of Hyundai’s bold new plan which will see over 20 models released before 2030, the N74 could enter production around 2026. Numbers will be extremely limited and entry prices exorbitant, but that hasn’t dampened our enthusiasm one bit.  

Could this be the start of something bigger? Let us know if you would drive a hydrogen-powered car. 

Hero image credit:  Hyundai