Hyundai Motor's ix35 completes record hydrogen-powered drive

Hyundai Motor's ix35 completes record hydrogen-powered drive

Hyundai Motors' ix35 Fuel Cell model has been driven a record distance for a hydrogen-powered production vehicle, covering 434 miles on a single tank across three countries.

The journey, conducted by independent Norwegian non-profit eco-pioneers Marius Bornstein and Arnt G. Hartvig, took 10 hours at an average speed of 47mph travelling through Norway, Sweden and Denmark.

The ix35 used was a standard production model and exceeded its stated range of 369 miles, with the trip computer still indicating nearly six miles of range left at the end of the test.

Marius Bornstein, said: "We had planned to finish in Copenhagen, but realised that there was enough hydrogen left in the tank for a longer drive.

"To achieve this distance on just one tank of hydrogen shows the potential of this technology and the ability of the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell. I believe this is a world record."

Frank Meijer, Head of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles at Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: "The distance travelled by the ix35 Fuel Cell demonstrates the viability and real-world benefits of hydrogen fuel cell technology  it's an electric vehicle with long-distance range. Hyundai Motor is the first automaker to mass-produce fuel cell vehicles, and we continue to promote the growth of Europe's hydrogen refuelling network."

As part of the Hydrogen For Innovative Vehicles (HyFIVE) initiative, recently established to grow Europe's refuelling infrastructure, a hydrogen station was opened in Malm�, Sweden, in June 2014.

As part of HyFIVE, 110 fuel-cell vehicles from five manufacturers will be delivered to customers across Europe, 75 of which are from the Hyundai Motor Group.

by: Danielle Bagnall