THE hydrogen powered NEXO has been turned into an SUV by Hyundai as the Korean car maker launches advanced fuel cell technology.

The mid-size model was revealed the Seoul Mobility Show in Korea Hyundai is targeting around 500 miles of range from a five-minute charge with the advanced fuel cell technology meaning the NEXO emits zero tailpipe emissions.

Hyundai is also targeting top-tier safety ratings thanks to the NEXO's comprehensive safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The second-generation NEXO reflects Hyundai Motor's leadership in hydrogen mobility and 27 years of fuel cell technology experience.

The new model also underscores the company's commitment to a diversified vehicle electrification strategy, which includes not only battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrids, but also FCEVs, offering wider consumer choice.

The interior uses rich, soft padding with patterns that evoke the warmth and comfort of a home.

A curved, driver-centric display, intuitive controls and an island-type centre console with a good amount of storage space are the key features as are digital side mirror displays.

The new NEXO is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in improved passenger comfort and increased rear cargo capacity, with a maximum of 993 litres- enough to accommodate up to four golf bags.

The new car also provides improved headroom and shoulder room for second-row passengers.

The rear doors open widerthan the previous-generation car, making it easier to get in and out.

Sustainable materialsare used throughout the vehicle, including bio-process leather, bio PU leather, recycled PET fabric, linen fabric, bio plastic, bio TPO skin, bio paint, bio PU slab foam, and recycled automotive plastic waste.

Total output has been elevated from 135 kW to 190 kW, while the battery's output has doubled from 40 kW to 80 kW.

These improvements contribute to a faster 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.8 secondscompared with 9.2 seconds for the previous NEXO with a top speed of 111mph.

The hydrogen fuel cell stack now delivers maximum gross power of 110 kW, a 16 percent increase, while the new electric motor provides up to 150 kW.

The FC stack also features improved low-temperature operability and durability enhancements, including to the membrane, and a uniform cell performance structure. The ‘Wake Up' stack anti-freezing function and other system optimizations enhance low-temperature drivability and ease of starting year-round.

Hydrogen capacity now stands at 6.69 kg, up from 6.33 kg in the previous-generation NEXO.

European-specification models of the new NEXO offer towing capability of up to 1,000 kg.

The new NEXO features a column-type shift lever that enhances driver convenience and cockpit usability. Removing the traditional shift lever allows for greater interior space and design flexibility, delivering greater storage space in the centre console.

The vehicle's FCEV Route Plannerhelps drivers reach their destinations by incorporating necessary charging stations into routes when energy levels are low. It recommends stations, shows the state of fuel at waypoints, and offers real-time hydrogen station info.

The system adjusts distance-to-empty based on air-conditioning use and displays an energy flow chart, hydrogen tank status, and current driving mode.

A dual wireless charging systemenables high-speed charging for smartphones. This tech supports NFC communication for Digital Key 2 keyless entry and vehicle start functionality.

The system features an integrated silicon pad as part of the wireless charger to avoid smartphone movement on the move and includes a cooling fan to prevent overheating. USB charging power stands at 15W, supporting fast charging for mobile devices.

As with Hyundai BEVs, the NEXO features a vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionthat provides versatile power solutions both inside and outside the vehicle.

Inside, an outlet on the centre console allows users to plug in home electronic devices and appliances, powered by the vehicle's high-voltage battery. Similarly, the exterior V2L function enables the use of electronic devices without the need for a separate V2L connector or adapter, offering direct plug-in capability.

Coming to global markets later this year, Hyundai's new NEXO is a testament to the company's leadership in the global hydrogen market.

Hyundai Motor continues to expand FCEV infrastructure and strengthen its market position as a pioneer in hydrogen mobility under Hyundai Motor Group's HTWO brand and its commitment to become a smart solutions provider across the full mobility spectrum.