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Hyundai Prepares For Next Generation Fuel Cell, As Details Emerge About New 2018 CUV

By Jinger Jarrett
Published on: 13:46 PST, Jul 31, 2016

Hyundai is making major changes to its technology with the roll out of its next generation fuel cell. The car maker also plans to release a new CUV in 2018, and new details are emerging about this latest addition to the Hyundai offerings.

Auto News reported that Hyundai plans to roll out its next generation fuel cell in 2018. This is just in time to debut the new fuel cell technology at the Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Ahn Byung-ki, Hyundai Motor Group director of eco-vehicle development said that the new technology would be offered in a new vehicle that is somewhere between a CUV and SUV.

Hyundai first introduced its fuel cell technology in 2013. The new fuel cell technology will be smaller and require less platinum for its catalyst. The battery itself will be bigger, although the electric motor will be smaller and have a higher electric output. Bucking the industry trend of partnering with other car makers, Hyundai is making the new fuel cell technology internally.

Auto Blog reported that new details of Hyundai’s new 2018 CUV emerged. The new vehicle hasn’t been given a title yet although it is part of the Intrado concept. It offers a supposed range of around 375 miles. Sae-Hoon Kim, head of Hyundai’s fuel cell research, said that customers prioritized range and boot space as what they wanted for the new vehicle. Originally Hyundai planned to release the new fuel cell technology and CUV in 2020, but with the Winter Olympics taking place in Pyeongchang, South Korea, in 2018, Hyundai announced that it was a good opportunity for PR.

Digital Trends reported that the Hyundai Genesis is turning into its own brand. Introduced in 2015, the Genesis Hyundai is releasing is the latest version under its own name and with few changes. Apart from a few minor details and new badging, it looks much the same as when it was under the Hyundai name. It also retains its powertrain options and is equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower (HP) and 293 lbs. of torque per foot. Customers also have the option of a 5.0-liter (L) V8 that produces 420 HP and 383 lbs. of torque per foot.

Both versions of the Genesis come with rear wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 version offers all wheel drive, and both models emphasize luxury over sportiness.

Slash Gear reported that Hyundai debuted the Genesis G80 and dropped the Hyundai name from the brand. Much of Hyundai’s success has come from the sales of the Genesis G80, and this spin-off will create a luxury sub brand for the car maker beginning with the release of the 2017 model.

Although there have been few changes in the styling and engine, the Genesis will have some additional technology and safety features thrown in. The technology features include an eight-inch touchscreen for an infotainment system, and it also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hyundai also added a high-end audio option, and a connected app controls the climate control, door locks, remote start and parking lot location.

Hyundai added the following safety features to the Genesis G80 that include blind spot detection, high beam and lane keep assist. Adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking and a standard rear view camera round out the offering. The automated braking allows the car to come to a full stop at speeds between five and 50 miles per hour while offering partial automated breaking at speeds between 50 and 112 miles per hour.

[Photo via David McNew/Getty Images]

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