January 6, 2005

Hyundai unveils second-generation fuel cell SUV

Los Angeles, California - Hyundai Motor Co.'s fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) program unveiled its second-generation fuel cell vehicle, the Tucson FCEV, at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. The Tucson FCEV has made significant advancements over its predecessor, the Santa Fe FCEV.

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The Tucson FCEV has a driving range double that of the Santa Fe FCEV. Tucson FCEV's driving range has been extended to 300 km (186 miles) thanks to its 152-liter (40-gallon) hydrogen storage tanks developed by Dynetek Industries Ltd. of Calgary, Alberta.

As well, the Tucson FCEV is one of the first fuel cell vehicles capable of starting in freezing temperatures. Testing has proven that the vehicle is capable of starting after being subjected to -20 degrees Celsius temperatures for five days. By contrast, the Santa Fe FCEV lacks cold weather start capability and is equipped with a 72-liter fuel tank.

Marginally lighter than its predecessor, the Tucson FCEV also gets five more kW of power for a peak output of 80kW. Its maximum speed is rated at 150 km/h (93 mph) compared to the Santa Fe's 124km/h (77 mph).

Other technical advancements include a higher output fuel cell and a new lithium ion polymer battery.

"These advances in our fuel cell electric vehicles are exciting steps forward for our program," said Kim Sang-Kwon, president of research and development for Hyundai-Kia Motors.

Hyundai will begin fleet testing in just three months. Fleets will eventually operate out of AC Transit of Oakland, California, Hyundai America Technical Center and Southern California Edison.

"Entering this new phase of our program will allow us to build fuel cell electric vehicles at higher volumes for fleet testing applications," said President Kim. "It also brings us one step closer to the commercialization of fuel cell vehicles."

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