Hyundai unveils new FE Concept equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell

FE Concept is yet another step forward in Hyundai’s clean transportation efforts

South Korean automaker Hyundai has unveiled a new concept car that is equipped with hydrogen fuel cell technology. Called the FE Concept, the new vehicle is yet another step in Hyundai’s efforts to improve upon previous models of fuel cell vehicles. The FE Concept is equipped with more advanced technology than previous models, which may help Hyundai better demonstrate the capabilities of fuel cell vehicles and draw yet more attention to hydrogen fuel cells and how they can be used in transportation.

New FE Concept may be able to travel 500 miles on a single tank of fuel

The FE Concept features a new hydrogen fuel cell design that weighs 20% less than other systems developed by Hyundai. The fuel cell system is also 10% more efficient and boasts of a 30% increase in power density. Hyundai claims that the FE Concept is capable of traveling nearly 500 miles on a single tank of hydrogen fuel. While the new fuel cell vehicle concept appears to be impressive, Hyundai will have to find a way to make fuel cells in general appeal to consumers interested in clean transportation.

Hydrogen fuel cells face many challenges

Hydrogen fuel cells are energy systems that have very recently begun to gain traction in the transportation space. These energy systems generate electricity and only produce water vapor and oxygen as a byproduct of this process. The problem, however, is that these energy systems are very expensive when compared to traditional engines for vehicles. They also lack the comprehensive infrastructure support they would need to gain consumer support. While Hyundai is a major automaker, the company does not have the power to ensure the success of fuel cell vehicles by itself. As such, Hyundai may need to work with other automakers, as well as fuel cell developers, in order to realize its clean transportation goals.

Automakers may have to cooperate in order for fuel cells to be successful

As automakers begin to show more interest in fuel cells, some believe that plug-in electrics could serve as an effective way to transition away from more traditional vehicles. Automakers must overcome many challenges in order for fuel cell vehicles to become successful, however, and cooperation may be the key to success in the clean transportation space.