Hyundai let the automotive world know that it’s embracing the future and developing new technology with its N Vision 74 hydrogen fuel cell hybrid concept. Hydrogen fuel cell power was once considered a fairytale for vehicle propulsion, but Hyundai launched its N brand in 2015 for sustainable performance and seven years later the N Vision 74 made its debut at Automobility LA. The N Vision 74 is part of Hyundai’s commitment to zero-emission technology development and is an homage to the Giorgetto Giugiaro designed Hyundai Pony Coupe concept from 1974.
“N Vision 74’s future-oriented design reflects the respect and appreciation we have for the dedication and passion that went into the Pony Coupe concept,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center.
My scientific knowledge is poor, hence pursuing a career as a writer, so I will defer to greater minds than myself to explain the fundamentals of propulsion in the N Vision 74 concept. Per Hyundai:
Hyundai engineers developed a unique hydrogen hybrid architecture, with the hybrid structure of a battery-electric in combination with an FCEV system, placed in an all-new layout unique to the N Vision 74. The fuel cell stack, with an output of 85 kW (Max 95 kW), is mounted in the front, and a 62.4kWh T-type battery is mounted in the bottom to lower overall height and center of gravity. The battery retains an 800V high-speed charging architecture.
Independent, rear-mounted motors, one per wheel, generate a total power output of 500kW. This allows engineers to precision tune power distribution between left and right wheels. The ability to rapidly adjust power distribution with precision allows multiple differential settings to be optimally configured for track driving of the N Vision 74.
N Vision 74 features dual-charging capability, and the rear-mounted 9.3 lb. capacity hydrogen fuel tanks can be refueled within five minutes. The 85kW fuel cell converts hydrogen to electricity to charge the 62kWh battery. The battery also shares the 800V battery technology from Hyundai’s e-GMP platform with fast-charge capability. Fuel and charging ports for both hydrogen and electricity allow flexibility for various scenarios, including spirited driving on the highway or performance driving on racetracks.
As a notorious electric vehicle proponent, I commend Hyundai for working towards developing new automotive tech that can lead to lower emissions but keeps driving fun. Going by its technical specifications (See below) the N Vision 74 concept is a rocket with more than 671 hp and it only takes five minutes to refuel with hydrogen. Hyundai is showing us a future with a Giugiaro design in a vehicle that has more horsepower than a 2021 Nissan GT-R Nismo (600 hp) and a 2022 McLaren GT (612 hp).
Yes, the N Vision 74 is a concept and it’s unclear if the vehicle or technology will ever be available to the public, but Hyundai is being bold, and I dig that. Give Hyundai credit for trying something new and worrying about the environment for the next generation and beyond. The N Vision N74 looks like the future and I am good with that.
N Vision 74 Technical Specifications
| Vehicle | Size | Length / Width / Height / Wheelbase (in.) | 195.0 / 78.5 / 52.4 / 114.4 |
| PE | Motor | Max Power (kW) | 500+ kW (671+ HP) (Rear drive) |
| Max Torque (Nm) | 900+ Nm (664+ lb.-ft.) | ||
| Battery | Capacity (kWh) | 62.4 kWh 800V Fast-charging capability | |
| Hydrogen | Tank Capacity | 9.3 lbs. | |
| Fuel Cell Stack | Net 85 kW (Max 95 kW) | ||
| Refueling Time | 5 min. | ||
| Performance | Max Speed | 155+ mph | |
| Driving Range | 373+ miles |
