A video featuring the XP-1, the world’s first hydrogen-powered supercar from the U.S. company Hyperion Motors, is gaining popularity online. The car looks straight out of a science-fiction movie: its four electric motors with a total capacity of 2,038 horsepower bring it to 100 kmph in less than 2.2 seconds, its maximum speed reaching 356 kmph.
The XP-1 uses a hydrogen fuel cell and supercapacitors instead of conventional lithium-ion batteries. This system gives the vehicle a maximum driving range of up to 1,635 kilometers before refueling, which only takes 3 to 5 minutes. The car’s lightweight body is made of carbon fiber with titanium elements, which is why the XP-1 weighs just about 1,032 kilograms. The design includes active aerodynamic elements with solar panels, striking V-shaped doors and a panoramic roof; the interior features a curved 98-inch display that can be controlled by hand gestures.
The concept of the hypercar was presented back in 2020, along with an announcement of limited production starting from 2022. However, very little information about the project has emerged since. Allegedly, the supercar plant will be based in Columbus, Ohio.
The biggest obstacle to the XP-1 entering the market is the underdeveloped infrastructure of hydrogen refueling stations in the United States. Today, there are few if any facilities for hydrogen-powered cars outside of California, which has 53 public hydrogen stations (with another one in Hawaii). This severely hinders the development of hydrogen-powered transport at large.
Nevertheless, Hyperion continues to accept orders for the XP-1, which is estimated at roughly $2 million apiece. Although the company has not published any news on its social networks and website for a long time, its founder Angelo Kafantaris announced in October 2024 that the plant could enter construction in the near future. The new video of the prototype is a sure sign that the project is alive and well.
