Hopium Machina: the French hydrogen car makes headlines

After the prototype, Hopium unveils a concept of its hydrogen sedan. This provides a first look at the interior.

In the automotive world, some believe in hydrogen while others remain more skeptical. The French company Hopium, on the other hand, belongs to the convinced. With its large sedan Machina, it aims to prove that this technology is viable.

A year after unveiling a first running prototype, the car is now presented as a concept car. Named Machina Vision, it gives the first glimpse of what the interior of the sedan will look like, which is positioned in the luxury vehicle market.

The interior reflects the exterior: simple and quite spectacular. A large screen spans the full width of the dashboard. It can slightly retract or, conversely, be highlighted to fully enjoy the digital experience. The screen moves somewhat like a wave, following a double vertical and horizontal movement.

Haptic Feedback Controls

Designed for four people, the interior is divided into two by a large central console equipped with haptic feedback controls. A panoramic glass roof ensures plenty of natural light inside. Passengers also enjoy carefully selected materials. According to Hopium, most materials come from Europe. This choice aims to reduce the environmental impact of the vehicle.

The final technical specifications of the Hopium Machina are yet to be announced. At the start of the project, the French manufacturer aimed for more than 500 hp and a top speed of 230 km/h. Regarding range, Hopium targeted 1,000 km.

The Machina Vision will be showcased in Paris, during the 2022 Paris Motor Show (October 17-23). Hopium, which has recently raised €50 million from an American fund, plans to begin production at the end of 2024 or early 2025. The model will be sold for €120,000.

Read also: Renault Scenic Vision: the space wagon between electric and hydrogen