Automotive startup NAMX today unveiled a concept version of its first-ever vehicle. The hydrogen-powered SUV is being described as an “HUV” featuring exclusive new technology and Pininfarina design. As such, the production version of the car is still a few years away and won’t arrive on the market until 2025. NAMX says, though, that it will initially be offered in two trim levels.
The first, an entry-level model, will be
rear-wheel-drive and will make 296 hp. It should be able to hit 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and keep going up to a top speed of 200 km/h. The GTH version, meanwhile, will get four-wheel-drive and 542 hp. It will be able to reach a top speed of 250 km/h and
will hit 100 km/h in a spritely 4.5 seconds. Prices for these models
will range from around € 65,000 to € 95,000 (US$ 68,410 to US$ 99,984) none of which sounds particularly revolutionary.
The HUV’s real party trick comes deeper
down in the bowels of the vehicle, where fuel storage is concerned. NAMX’s
patented technology combines a fixed hydrogen tank and six additional removable
capsules to be used as secondary tanks. The startup promises that this will
give the vehicle a range of up to 800 km. It also intends to create
a distribution network for its removable capsules.
These tanks were a primary concern for
Pininfarina, which had to first ensure that their use was integrated into the
design of the vehicle. Beyond that, though, Pininfarina reveals that it worked
with NAMX to ensure that the HUV is a “next-generation” vehicle that does not
lose touch with the past.
Along with the help of Pininfarina, the
automotive startup is being run by a group of automotive industry veterans with
experience at companies like Matra, Renault, and more. Development of the HUV
is set to begin in 2023 and the HUV will make its physical debut at the Paris
Auto Show this fall.
