In a surprising turn of events, Hyundai Motor has reportedly canceled the production plan for its much-anticipated N Vision 74, according to iNews24 report. The hydrogen-electric hybrid sports car that was set to expand the automaker’s high-performance electric vehicle lineup.
Internal Sources Indicate Project Cancellation
On September 30, an insider from Hyundai revealed that the N Vision 74 project has been halted. “The production schedule that was internally discussed has been canceled,” the source stated. This information suggests a significant shift in the company’s strategic focus.
Official Statement Leaves Room for Speculation
When approached for comments, Hyundai maintained a cautious stance. “The concept car is intended to showcase our future direction,” a company representative said. “The production schedule remains open, and no definitive decisions have been made regarding its cancellation.”
The Promise of N Vision 74
Unveiled in 2022 as a concept car, the N Vision 74 captured attention with its innovative fusion of hydrogen fuel cell technology and high-performance electric motors. The vehicle was expected to feature a rear-wheel-drive system powered by a 570 kW motor, translating to over 775 horsepower. This would surpass traditional supercars like the Ferrari Roma (620 horsepower) and Lamborghini Huracán (640 horsepower). With an anticipated 0-100 km/h acceleration time in the three-second range, the N Vision 74 aimed to rival the performance of conventional supercars.
Expert Analysis on the Cancellation
Industry analysts suggest that Hyundai’s decision may be due to the company’s involvement in multiple ambitious projects. “Hyundai has recently ventured into various sectors such as Urban Air Mobility (UAM), hydrogen technology, and Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs),” noted Lee Hang-gu, head of the Automotive Convergence Technology Institute. “The development of a performance car requires extensive accumulated data. Given that Genesis was launched less than a decade ago and hydrogen vehicles have yet to contribute significantly to profits, the N74 may have been deprioritized.” he added.
Previous Announcements Indicated a Different Direction
In August, during the 2024 CEO Investor Day, Hyundai announced plans to launch 21 electrified models by 2030. The presentation highlighted a range of upcoming vehicles, including the N Vision 74 and Genesis’s high-performance trim, Magma. Although the N Vision 74 was not explicitly named, the company emphasized its commitment to offering “a wide range of choices from the mass market to premium and high-performance products.”
Policy Change Within a Month?
The recent developments have raised questions about Hyundai’s strategic planning. “It’s evident that there has been a policy change within a month,” commented an industry expert. “The N74 was prominently featured in official materials just weeks ago, indicating that the decision to cancel or postpone the project is a recent one.”
What This Means for Hyundai’s Future
The cancellation of the N Vision 74’s production plan could signal a realignment of Hyundai’s priorities. With resources potentially being redirected to other innovative sectors like UAM and SDVs, the company could focus in other areas.