First Fuel-Cell-Powered Hyundai ix35s Reach UK Customers

As it itself states, Hyundai is the first automaker to ever sell hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles in the UK. The Korean automaker is rolling out its fuel-cell ix35 around the world, in markets where it stands a chance.

That chance is not necessarily brought about by actual customer demand, as the tech is still horrendously expensive (and some say unfeasible…), but rather with “£11 million of UK government and industry funding to support hydrogen transport.”

The first hydrogen-powered ix35s have already reached UK customers, though by customers don’t be confused into thinking private owners. That’s because “the first to enjoy operating the pioneering vehicles on UK roads are organisations including Air Products, ITM Power, Johnson Matthey and Transport for London.”

On a full tank of hydrogen, the ix35 is capable of traveling up to a claimed 350 miles or 563 km, which is obviously more than battery powered EVs can muster.

However, private buyers can still put their name down for one, and the first batch of such cars will arrive in early 2015, according to the manufacturer.

The plan is to invest in infrastructure (always a good plan, we may add…) and it is hoped that through “continued investment in the sector through 2015 will expand the nationwide hydrogen refueling station network, boosting consumer confidence and increasing uptake of fuel cell vehicles.”