Hyundai fuel cell generator to make motorsports debut in Pure ETCR

Back in 2020, Hyundai launched its dedicated fuel cell brand HTWO. It is an initiative that brings the South Korean carmaker’s expertise in hydrogen fuel cell technology, building from over 20 years of experience.

And now, Hyundai announces the motorsports debut of HTWO’s hydrogen-powered fuel cell.

The hydrogen fuel cell system will most likely power Hyundai’s souped-up Veloster N, which was unveiled back in October of 2019. In a previous press release from Hyundai Motor Group, the company said that the Veloster N ETCR will be the first electric racing car to be built by Hyundai Motorsport in Alzenau, Germany.

Hyundai’s league of choice is Pure ETCR (Electric Touring Car Racing).

Pure ETCR is the world’s first all-electric touring car race event that gives leading vehicle manufacturers a global stage to showcase EV technology in a high-performance arena.

During the Pure ETCR championship, Hyundai’s motorsports division will be providing a mobile charging infrastructure that uses HTWO’s proprietary fuel cell generator to charge all participating high-performance EVs.

The said charging system can generate 160kW of power — enough to fully charge two cars simultaneously in one hour.

Output of the charging system is said to be twice of the Nexo, Hyundai’s fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

“It is a significant milestone for Hyundai Motor Group that our fuel cell generator will play a key role in the charging infrastructure for high-performance racing cars at ETCR, as it heralds an exciting new era in the world of motorsports,” said Hyundai Motor Group Executive Vice President and Head of Fuel Cell Center Saehoon Kim.

“Through the event, we hope to relay a message that hydrogen and electric energy solutions will coexist as the power sources of future mobility,” he adds.

Hyundai will join the ranks of carmakers who are now actively participating in all-electric motorsports including Nissan in the FIA Formula E.

Pure ETCR will take place for the first time in Vallelunga, Italy, from Friday, June 18 to Sunday, June 20.

Outside the races, Hyundai plans to put the similar hydrogen concept in remote areas to supply power where electricity is not available.

Photo from Hyundai

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