With a raft of green technology coming onto the market in concept form in recent months, Hyundai is the first manufacturer to launch a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.

Based on the current Hyundai ix35, the new vehicle will begin production at the Ulsan factory in Korea; with plans to build up to 1,000 examples by 2015. With signed contracts for leasing agreements in Denmark and Sweden, Hyundai plans to put the vehicle into mass production at 10,000 units a year after 2015.

Under the skin of the new ix35 you'll find a hydrogen fuel cell stack, which generates electricity, charging the Lithium Polymer battery that powers the ix35's electric motor - resulting in nothing but water coming out of the back of the car. Filling the tank takes only a few minutes; and the car will drive up to a claimed 365 miles between fuel stops. Hyundai has also done away with the traditional air compressor fitted to cool most hydrogen-fuelled cars in favour of ambient air instead. This decision has reduced overall cabin noise and lowered power consumption by up to 50 per cent.

Whilst the way the car is powered is different from the standard version performance remains fairly normal. The 0-62mph benchmark is dispatched in 12.5 seconds and the ix35 can hit 100mph.

To maximise range, stop-start is fitted as standard, shutting down the fuel-cell when the car is stationary. Brake-energy recuperation has also been included, charging the battery under braking and when travelling downhill.

Visually, the hydrogen-powered ix35 has a new grille and design touches to distinguish it from a standard model.

James Giddings - 27 Sep 2012