Hyperion has unveiled its XP-1 hypercar prototype via video, the first chapter of the company’s long-term vision to harness electric energy with hydrogen technology. Founded in 2011 by a team of PhDs, the technology company consists of three divisions—Hyperion Energy, Hyperion Motors, and Hyperion Aerospace—all focused on hydrogen-based power and delivery. Based in Orange, CA, Hyperion delivers cutting-edge space technology, pioneered by NASA, to the world. It is aiming to revolutionize the transportation industry, from road vehicles to space travel, by offering convenient, high-quality, low-cost hydrogen fuel across America.
The first vehicle from the Southern California technology company is the result of nearly 10 years of development, testing, and research in hydrogen technology by over 200 researchers and scientists. The company aimed at eliminating range anxiety compared to other electric vehicles (EVs), so the XP-1 features an impressive 1000-mi (1610-km) range; this allows drivers the freedom to travel long distances with peace of mind.
Hydrogen storage technology within the vehicle enables the XP-1 to be “recharged” in less than 5 min at public stations. The company says that the vehicle stores it electrical energy in fuel-cell systems versus heavy lithium-ion batteries, and it provides all the benefits of electric motors found in traditional EVs without the added weight, extended charging times, battery degradation, and cost-prohibitive recyclability.
“The XP-1 was partially designed to function as an educational tool for the masses,” said Angelo Kafantaris, Hyperion CEO and Founder. “Aerospace engineers have long understood the advantages of hydrogen as the most abundant, lightest element in the universe and now, with this vehicle, consumers will experience its extraordinary value proposition. This is only the beginning of what can be achieved with hydrogen as an energy storage medium.”
The XP-1’s hydrogen fuel cell provides electrical energy to all four wheels via powerful motors. Due to the motors’ near-instantaneous power delivery and the vehicle’s lightweight design, it is capable of reaching 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in under 2.2 s. Top speed is said to be more than 220 mph (355 km/h).
The company cited its main reason for using fuel-cell technology for mobility. It says that the zero-emissions system eliminates the need for heavy batteries, with acceleration, braking, handling, and powertrain efficiency vastly improved when compared to traditional electric and hybrid vehicles. The car’s hydrogen-storage system is said to be unaffected by extreme temperatures, enabling the vehicle to consistently and reliably provide peak performance over extended driving sessions, both on the street and at the track. It says that this is a crucial advantage over battery-electric vehicles, which require non-stop temperature maintenance.
The XP-1 also uses active aerodynamics structures that envelope each side of the vehicle to improve cornering at high speeds. Additionally, these elements double as solar panels, which can articulate to follow the trajectory of the sun.
The car is said to use some of the most advanced technology in the world, including technology derived from some of the world’s leading aeronautical, engineering firms, and space agencies. Hyperion says it developed spaceflight technology pioneered by NASA for use in commercial applications including advanced hydrogen systems, power-generation technology, and high-performance materials.
In keeping with the Greek mythology link to the company’s name, the XP-1 employs V-wind doors inspired by the “winged Victory of Somothrace.” Under the car’s 134-in (3400-mm) glass canopy, the car uses a 98-in curved display and gesture control. The XP-1 will be produced in the U.S. beginning in 2022, but before that Hyperion promises to provide additional information regarding its plan to revolutionize the hydrogen refueling industry.
