You can’t buy a Hyperion XP-1 yet, but you can buy one of its prototypes.
One of the seven development vehicles used during the creation of the hydrogen-powered hypercar is currently up for bid on SBX Cars. It lacks the production version’s space-grad powertrain, but it’s guaranteed to be one of the more unusual vehicles to go up for grabs this spring.
Back in 2020, the Orange County-based Hyperion unveiled a head-turning hypercar with first-of-its-kind hydrogen fuel-cell technology. The XP-1 is powered by a quartet of electric motors fed by a fuel cell connected large hydrogen tank. The unique setup can produce over 2,000 hp, can travel over 1,000 miles on a single charge, and takes only five minutes to recharge. The car generated plenty of buzz upon its debut, but more than three years later it’s yet to go into production and there’s been no sign it will.
Hyperion XP-1 Prototype
SBX Cars
That makes this auction the best chance a collector will have of actually buying the vehicle. Unfortunately, since the vehicle up for sale is just a prototype it lacks the much-hyped hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain. But it is still drivable as a “show car” thanks to an electric propulsion system, according to the listing. No power figures are mentioned, but it’s safe to say, the prototype probably can’t sprint from zero to 60 mph in 2.2 seconds or hit a top speed of 221 mph.
The car does look just as promised, though. Its exterior may have hints of the Bugatti Chiron and Hispano Suiza Carmen. But the vehicle looks more like something from a sci-fi movie than any road car we’ve seen. It’s finished in satin titanium and sky blue and has a set of V-wing doors inspired by the “Winged Victory of Samothrace” sculpture, as well as adjustable aerodynamic air blades that double as solar panels.
Inside the XP-1 prototype
SBX Cars
The two-seater’s cabin is nearly as outrageous, featuring a 360-degree panoramic cockpit, a giant infotainment screen, and midnight blue leather upholstery. SBX Cars claims the exterior and interior are in excellent condition, but that both feature “minor flaws.”
With five days left to go in the auction, bidding for the XP-1 prototype has reached €44,000 (or $46,840). It would not be a surprise to see that number climb in the days to come, considering its rarity. Additionally, whoever does win this auction will receive a special invitation to order and customize the finished XP-1 should it ever go into production. They’ll also be able to trade in the prototype and use its value as a down payment for the finished hypercar.
