ELECTRIC cars, range extenders, plug-in hybrids – all of these are important in the delivery of greener, more sustainable business motoring.
But so, too, is the hydrogen fuel cell.
And the first full production fuel cell vehicle is the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell.
Like electric cars the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell offers zero emissions. Unlike electric cars, the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell can be driven for up to 369 miles before being refuelled. And filling up with hydrogen is pretty similar to what you are used to refuelling a petrol or diesel company car.
Which such technology on their hands – and the launch date set for 2015 – it’s not surprising then that Hyundai has appointed its first sustainable fuel development manager – Robin Hayles.
It’s a newly created position in which Robin will be expected to develop and deliver Hyundai’s Fuel Cell and sustainable fuels strategy.
Employed at Hyundai since 2004 in a number of roles, most recently as Product Manager for ix35, Santa Fe, i800 and iLoad, Robin brings a wealth of experience from over 10 years with the company.
What’s like to drive a Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell?
- We’ve driven the hydrogen powered fuel cell car
- Power: 136hp
- Torque: 300Nm
- 0-62mph: 12.5 seconds
- Range: 369 miles
- Read our driving report: Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell first drive
In his previous role, Robin was responsible for managing the viability study of ix35 Fuel Cell vehicles in the UK, building a wide web of contacts within Government and industry bodies.
Speaking of his appointment, Robin said:
“I am delighted to be appointed Hyundai Motor UK’s first sustainable fuel development manager, providing the business with a dedicated resource to build upon the substantial progress we have already achieved. We will continue to push forward with our plans for large scale deployment of fuel cell electric vehicles in the UK.
“ix35 Fuel Cell is the first series production FCEV on the market and has received significant interest from businesses across the UK. I look forward to continuing discussions with our customers and the first UK customer deliveries in the weeks ahead.”
Martin Wilson, Hyundai’s fleet director, added this on the appointment of Robin Hayles:
“His appointment adds valuable insight and experience into our team, further supporting our efforts to meet the high expectations of business and fleet customers.
“Sustainable and alternative fuel solutions have never been more important to our customers, and this appointment together with our current and forthcoming class-leading products will enable us to meet future demand.”
The creation of this new position highlights Hyundai’s commitment to driving forward plans to bring Fuel Cell technology to the UK passenger vehicle market as well as exploring other sustainable fuel technologies.
