A few months after the Hyperion XP-1 was previewed with a host of official photos, a camouflaged prototype of the car has been pictured out and about during recent tests in Las Vegas. Found beneath the striking skin of the XP-1 is an advanced hydrogen powertrain that Hyperion says includes a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, carbon fiber hydrogen storage systems, and ultra-capacitor energy storage technology. The vehicle also features multiple electric motors, all-wheel drive, and sports a three-speed transmission.
The startup is remaining quite coy on
certain details about the powertrain but claims the car can hit 96
km/h in less than 2.2 seconds and top out at beyond 356 km/h,
incredible figures for any performance car, particularly one powered by
hydrogen. What’s even more remarkable are claims the car will have a range of 1,635 km and can be refueled in less than five minutes.
In these photos, the XP-1 may look quite
large and beefy but thanks to its carbon titanium monocoque and lightweight
bodywork, it’s said to weigh less than 1,032 kg. The exterior
design of the XP-1 looks like something out of a sci-fi film rather than a car
that will actually hit the production line. There are intriguing V-wing doors,
a wrap-around glass canopy, and active aerodynamic blades along the sides that
are said to improve cornering.
Hyperion intends on starting production of
the car in 2022 and plans to build just 300 examples. Pricing details remain
under wraps.
