FAST reveals converted Hydrogen Supercar
The F61H is the world’s first converted hydrogen-fuelled supercar that keeps alive the spirit and performance of V12 combustion engines.
On an evening that celebrated future mobility and old-school driving thrill at once, Future Automotive Solutions and Technologies (FAST) unveiled to the world its hydrogen powered legacy car. Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal witnessed the glimpse of a new era of performance motoring admired by VIP guests, industry figures and media for the supercar’s first public outing. Designed for drivers who believe the future of motoring should feel as visceral as its past, the F61H brings together classic design values with hydrogen-powered innovation.
FAST is co-founded by automotive design maestro Ken Okuyama, whose legendary reputation is exemplified in the iconic Enzo Ferrari and the Maserati birdcage design. F61H is the first design creation of Okuyama for the FAST badge. The hydrogen powered car upholds the emotional and sensory connection of fiery driving sans the smoke which is literally replaced by steam in the hydrogen car’s exhaust. The car even has an inspiring roar of its own, akin to the deep V12 sound, perhaps milder but no less pleasing. Relishing the opportunity to have a reasonably long chat with the acclaimed design guru, I asked him if the output was manipulated to sound that way. He replied that wasn’t necessary as the hydrogen engine does have impressive original notes. While electric vehicles replace sound with silence, through hydrogen-powered supercars, FAST is championing the evolution of performance, not its disappearance.
F61H is supposed to be the world’s first hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine supercar, as a couple of earlier efforts elsewhere utilised a combination of electric power and hydrogen. “Interestingly, while performance cars are making a point with stupendous performance figures, this supercar is going conservative.” I couldn’t stop myself from asking. The vision of Okuyama san had a clear answer. This machine was not about huge power or jealous acceleration. It was about allowing combustion to continue without emissions, preserving the roar, temperature and vibration – enabling a driver’s machine to retain its soul!
“This car represents our belief that performance and sustainability do not need to compete. They can strengthen one another when engineered with purpose. The UAE’s spirit of ambition and innovation makes it the right environment to debut a car built to preserve the emotion of driving while moving it into a new era.” Besides not letting visceral, sensory driving experience to die, FAST vehicles will also be a solution to mass disposal issues tied to battery-dependent platforms.
Do you think Hydrogen is the way forward for sustainable performance motoring? Add your comment and don’t forget to watch our Instagram reel / YouTube short.
