You Can’t Buy The 2,000HP Hyperion XP-1 Hypercar, But You Can Bid On A Prototype

Hyperion Motors has yet to unveil the production version of their XP-1 hypercar, which was originally announced in 2020 promising wild specs and the use of NASA-developed technology. While there is no indication of a forthcoming market launch, an ‘ultra-rare’ development prototype of the Hyperion XP-1 will soon be offered in an online auction.This life-sized model, built by the Southern California startup, is one of seven prototypes created for development of the XP-1. While technically a concept car, its design is intended to form the basis for a production version, should that ever come to fruition.

Despite having some unspecified “minor flaws,” the prototype is reportedly in excellent condition. More: Which Of These 10 Startup Hypercars Do You Think Will Actually Reach Production?According to the SBX Cars listing, the prototype is “fitted with electric propulsion and is drivable as a show car”. This means the winning bidder won’t experience the hydrogen fuel cell system, including the hydrogen tanks, supercapacitors, high-performance motors, and special gearbox planned for the production model.

That version promises a mind-blowing 2,000 horsepower and over 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of range. While the auction details don’t mention the dummy electric motor’s specifications, it’s safe to assume it won’t match the insane performance figures of the production car.Despite the limitations, there are perks for the winning bidder. They’ll have the exclusive right to customize a “special edition” of the upcoming limited-production Hyperion XP-1, and the auction price can be applied as a credit towards the final car.

In essence, buying the prototype is like a discounted down payment, assuming Hyperion delivers the hypercar as planned.As with all Hyperion XP-1 examples seen to date, the pictured model is painted in satin titanium silver with sky blue accents and a pair of adjustable air blades that double as solar panels. The two-seater interior features leather upholstery and carbon fiber elements, along with a supposedly functional infotainment system. However, the design resembles a sci-fi movie car from the ’00s, with fit and finish akin to a concept car.Hyperion