Hyperion has unveiled their new XP-1
prototype, which looks a bit like a Bugatti that landed from outer space.
Described as the first chapter in the company’s long-term vision to promote
hydrogen, the XP-1 is billed as the “culmination of nearly 10 years of
development, testing, and research in hydrogen technology by over 200
researchers and scientists.”
Starting with the exterior, the XP-1 has a
bold design which will surely make people do a double take. The company didn’t
go into too many details, but the model features titanium reinforced composite
bodywork and a “vortex forced” air intake.
The car also has “v-wing” doors and a
wrap-around glass canopy which can apparently be electronically tinted for
privacy. Other highlights include a Kevlar composite diffuser, LED lighting
units and active aerodynamic side blades which help to improve cornering at
high speeds. The side blades are covered in solar panels and Hyperion said they
can “articulate to follow the trajectory of the sun.” Last but not least, the
XP-1 rides on 20- and 21-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires. They’re
backed up by massive carbon ceramic discs that measure 18 inches (457 mm) front
and 17 inches (432 mm) rear.
While we only get a few glimpses of the
interior, Hyperion said the model has a 2,489 mm curved display and
gesture control technology. Other highlights include carbon fiber and titanium
accents as well as carbon fiber seats wrapped in hand-stitched leather.
Hyperion was coy on technical specifications, but said the car has a proton
exchange membrane fuel cell, carbon fiber hydrogen storage systems and
ultra-capacitor energy storage technology. The model also features multiple
electric motors, all-wheel drive and a three-speed transmission.
That isn’t much to go on, but the company
said the XP-1 will rocket from 0-96 km/h in less than 2.2 seconds
and hit a top speed in excess of 356 km/h. The car is also slated to
have a range of 1,635 km and can be refueled in less than five
minutes. The model promises to be extremely lightweight as it will tip the
scales at less than 1032 kg thanks to its carbon titanium monocoque
and lightweight bodywork. The car will also have an “ultralight” aluminum alloy
independent double wishbone suspension and a hydraulic ride height system.
The XP-1 was created to help showcase the
benefits of hydrogen technology and Hyperion noted the model features electric
motors without the added weight and extended charging times of lithium-ion
batteries. Hyperion CEO Angelo Kafantaris also said the car was “partially
designed to function as an educational tool for the masses” as “aerospace
engineers have long understood the advantages of hydrogen as the most abundant,
lightest element in the universe.” The XP-1 is slated to go into production in
2022 and it will be built in the United States. Production will be limited to
300 units and the model will be extensively customizable.