Pininfarina gives form to potential solution for weak hydrogen infrastructure

TURIN – Topping up a hydrogen-powered car may one day be even more convenient than today's refueling experience for gasoline- and diesel-powered models.

That is the future that a European-African startup envisions and that Italian design and engineering firm Pininfarina has given shape to.

The NamX HUV concept comes with a fuel cell system that promises 500 km (310 miles) of range from the hydrogen stored in its main tank, plus an additional 300 km from six swappable capsules that fit in the rear below the trunk.

The idea is that empty capsules can be exchanged at the existing fuel station network -- as well as at department stores -- so the driver can add range if it's not possible to refill the main hydrogen tank.

NamX co-founders Faouzi Annajah and Thomas de Lussac plan to unveil the HUV, short for hydrogen utility vehicle, at the Paris auto show in October.

The HUV is part of a large-scale industrial and technological project the aims to help accommodate the shift to "green" hydrogen to reduce vehicle emissions.

NamX aims to have the HUV on the market by late 2025 at prices ranging from 65,000 euros to 95,000 euros ($70,000 to $102,000), depending on the version.

An entry-level, rear-wheel-drive model will offer 300 hp, a top speed of 200 kph and acceleration from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds.

A four-wheel-drive top-of-the-line variant will deliver 550 hp, a top speed of 250 kph and 0 to 100 kph acceleration in 4.5 seconds, the company said.

NamX and Pininfarina collaborated to give the HUV a clean, muscular design. A recurring theme seem on the exterior is the appearance of the letter X, from the company's name, engraved on the HUV's doors and repeated on the grille.

"We have a double ambition, to become a new benchmark in the world of zero-emission cars and to constantly explore new territories that facilitate mobility," Annaiah said during the HUV's preview at Pininfarina's headquarters near Turin earlier this month.