Hyundai has unveiled its Initium concept, previewing a new hydrogen fuel cell SUV coming in 2025.

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Expected to succeed the Nexo, the new model has a targeted driving range of more than 403 miles (650km) and up to 204hp of power, compared to 414 miles and 163hp for its forebear.

The concept draws on the company’s 27 years of hydrogen technology development and shows that the carmaker remains committed to hydrogen development.

Initium is a Latin word meaning ‘beginning’ or ‘first’, which Hyundai said reinforces its status as a hydrogen energy pioneer and its commitment to develop a hydrogen society.

The Initium is designed around three primary aspects: the superior driving range and enhanced performance along with the unique convenience and safety features inherent to hydrogen cars, plus a spacious interior and luggage area.

The concept is equipped with large hydrogen fuel tanks to maximise the vehicle’s range, while aerodynamic wheels reduce drag and are wrapped in low rolling resistance tyres.

The latest edition of Hyundai’s fuel cell technology also delivers increased output from the stack and enhanced battery capacity, allowing electric motor output of up to 204hp. Hyundai also says the new model will deliver smooth driving in urban areas and at higher speeds on highways.

The hydrogen fuel cell stack can also be used to power and charge various household appliances and personal devices via the concept’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature. The exterior terminal is designed to connect directly to a 220V household outlet, enabling vehicle-to-grid opportunities.

The Initium also showcases Hyundai’s new ‘Art of Steel’ design language. This integrates the symbol for the carmaker’s HTWO hydrogen value chain business brand, launched earlier this year at CES 2024. The ‘+’ inspired graphic is used in the lighting signature, blended with the bumper, creating a distinctive FCEV-specific design cue that reinforces Hyundai’s vision for a future driven by hydrogen.

The concept also uses bold lines, 21-inch wheels and a rugged roof rack, delivering practicality along with a “solid and safe” SUV design that reflects the brand’s ‘customer-centric’ focus.

Hyundai introduced its first dedicated hydrogen fuel cell model in 2018, becoming the world’s first automaker to mass-produce hydrogen FCEVs.

The Initium concept will be showcased at the LA Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou next month ahead of the start of production in the first half of 2025. There’s no word yet on whether the new model will come to the UK.