In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John examines Hyundai's new NEXO fuel cell SUV and a programme that makes young drivers safer on the roads. Korean giant Hyundai has turned the hydrogen powered NEXO into an SUV as the manufacturer launches advanced fuel cell technology. The mid-size model was revealed at the Seoul Mobility Show and Hyundai is targeting around 500 miles of range from a five-minute charge with the advanced fuel cell technology meaning the NEXO emits zero tailpipe emissions. Hyundai is also targeting top-tier safety ratings thanks to the NEXO’s comprehensive safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers. The second-generation NEXO reflects Hyundai Motor’s leadership in hydrogen mobility and 27 years of fuel cell technology experience. The new model also underscores the company’s commitment to a diversified vehicle electrification strategy, which includes not only battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrids, but also FCEVs, offering wider consumer choice. A curved, driver-centric display, intuitive controls and an island-type centre console with a good amount of storage space are the key features as are digital side mirror displays. The new NEXO is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in improved passenger comfort and increased rear cargo capacity, with a maximum of 993 litres - enough to accommodate up to four golf bags. The new car also provides improved headroom and shoulder room for second-row passengers. The rear doors open wider than the previous-generation car, making it easier to get in and out. Sustainable materials are used throughout the vehicle, including bio-process leather, bio PU leather, recycled PET fabric, linen fabric, bio plastic, bio TPO skin, bio paint, bio PU slab foam, and recycled automotive plastic waste. Total output has been elevated from 135 kW to 190 kW, while the battery’s output has doubled from 40 kW to 80 kW. These improvements contribute to a faster 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.8 seconds] compared with 9.2 seconds for the previous NEXO with a top speed of 111mph. The hydrogen fuel cell stack now delivers maximum gross power of 110 kW, a 16 per cent increase, while the new electric motor provides up to 150 kW. The FC stack also features improved low-temperature operability and durability enhancements, including to the membrane, and a uniform cell performance structure. The ‘Wake Up’ stack anti-freezing function and other system optimizations enhance low-temperature drivability and ease of starting year-round. Hydrogen capacity now stands at 6.69 kg, up from 6.33 kg in the previous-generation NEXO. European-specification models of the new NEXO offer towing capability of up to 1000 kg. The new NEXO features a column-type shift lever that enhances driver convenience and cockpit usability. Removing the traditional shift lever allows for greater interior space and design flexibility, delivering greater storage space in the centre console. The vehicle’s FCEV Route Planner helps drivers reach their destinations by incorporating necessary charging stations into routes when energy levels are low. It recommends stations, shows the state of fuel at waypoints, and offers real-time hydrogen station information. The system adjusts distance-to-empty based on air-conditioning use and displays an energy flow chart, hydrogen tank status, and current driving mode. A dual wireless charging system enables high-speed charging for smartphones. This tech supports NFC communication for Digital Key 2 keyless entry and vehicle start functionality. The system features an integrated silicon pad as part of the wireless charger to avoid smartphone movement on the move and includes a cooling fan to prevent overheating. USB charging power stands at 15W, supporting fast charging for mobile devices. Coming to global markets later this year, Hyundai’s new NEXO is a testament to the company’s leadership in the global hydrogen market. Hyundai Motor continues to expand FCEV infrastructure and strengthen its market position as a pioneer in hydrogen mobility under Hyundai Motor Group’s HTWO brand and its commitment to become a smart solutions provider across the full mobility spectrum. In further motoring developments, a road safety scheme which aims to create a safer next generation of drivers has delivered a landmark 1.5 million lessons. Young Driver teaches people to drive from the age of nine, and is the largest scheme of its kind in the UK. Research shows that teaching youngsters to drive over a longer period of time can help to improve the safety of drivers when they go on to pass their test. On average, one in five newly qualified drivers in the UK has an accident within the first six months of passing their test - but for Young Driver grads that reduces to less than one in 25 (3.4 per cent), an 84 per cent reduction. Having launched in 2009 at just one site, Young Driver now operates at 70 venues across England, Scotland and Wales. Over the 16 years the scheme has been operating, 9384 events have taken place. Realistic road systems are created on private property, with roundabouts, junctions and areas to practice manoeuvres. Lessons are taught in dual controlled Suzuki Swifts or similar cars, by a roster of 430 Approved Driving Instructors. Youngsters learn as they would on the road at 17, mastering the skills of clutch control, braking, steering and observation, with a drive diary tracking their progress. Under nines can even have a lesson in the specially created electric Firefly, a two-seater car for younger children. Ian Mulingani, the managing director of Young Driver, said: “Everything we do is about safety and helping young people realise the responsibility that comes with being behind the wheel of a vehicle. "Practice really does make perfect and the accident statistics for our past pupils prove this is a positive way to improve the safety of young people behind the wheel. But it’s still something they have fun doing." Whilst children can begin learning from age nine, one in five of the scheme’s pupils is aged 16, and looking to ramp up their experience before lessons on the roads. Young Driver’s research has shown that past pupils are likely to require 58 per cent fewer professional lessons on the road before passing their test. Alumni took, on average, only 19 professional lessons at 17 before they passed their test - a big reduction on the national average of 45 hours. A further 19 per cent of pupils are aged 17 or 18, and are looking to build up their confidence in a safe and secure environment. Young Driver recently unveiled a brand new fleet of 170 Suzuki Swift cars. Youngsters can also have lessons in classic and luxury vehicles, and even a fire engine. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here . And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here .