At the recent “INNOPROM Belarus” exhibition, Russia’s Central Automotive and Engine Research Institute (NAMI) unveiled the Aurus Hydrogen prototype.
This marks Russia’s first luxury sedan equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell. Developed on the Aurus Senat platform—a vehicle line serving Russia’s top leaders—the Aurus Hydrogen transitions to a more eco-friendly configuration.
Powering the Aurus Hydrogen are three electric motors paired with a full-time all-wheel-drive system, delivering a combined output of 1,020 horsepower. The primary energy source is a hydrogen fuel cell, where hydrogen reacts with oxygen to generate electricity, emitting only pure water vapor. Additionally, the vehicle features a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery, rechargeable from external power sources, serving as an energy buffer during acceleration or high-demand scenarios.
According to NAMI, the Aurus Hydrogen accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h—an impressive feat for a sedan weighing over 2.5 tons.
The high-pressure hydrogen tank is designed to store 8 kg of hydrogen at 700 atm, providing a maximum range of 870 km, combining energy from both the battery and fuel cell.
Built on the Aurus Senat platform, the Hydrogen retains its luxurious, classic European styling. It features a large grille, thick chrome accents, and a distinctive winged logo, evoking the grandeur of brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
Inside, the cabin is crafted from premium materials such as genuine wood, natural leather, and polished metal. A digital display provides real-time information on hydrogen levels, power consumption, and battery status. The climate control and seating systems are engineered for maximum comfort and quietness, befitting a vehicle designed for state leaders.
NAMI representatives stated that the Aurus Hydrogen launch showcases Russia’s clean energy technology potential, rather than an immediate push for commercial production. The institute emphasized that the vehicle’s technical foundation could be adapted for future models, including SUVs and limousines.
A significant challenge is the limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure in Russia. Additionally, storing and transporting high-pressure hydrogen requires stringent safety standards.
However, industry experts view Aurus’s hydrogen technology experimentation as a bold move, demonstrating Russia’s commitment to reducing fossil fuel dependence and aligning with global clean energy trends.
Unlike pure electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can refuel in minutes while offering a range comparable to gasoline cars. This system also reduces reliance on extensive electrical grids, making it ideal for countries with vast geographies.
The Aurus Hydrogen stands as the world’s first luxury sedan to adopt this technology, a feat yet unmatched by even top brands like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, or Mercedes-Maybach.
According to INNOPROM experts, if produced in limited quantities in the future, the Aurus Hydrogen could become a new symbol of Russian technology and power, much like the Senat’s role in the leadership vehicle segment.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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