Hyundai Unveils Blue2 Concept in Seoul

Hyundai has pulled the sheets off its Blue2 FCEV Concept at this week's Seoul Motor Show, offering a preview of its plans in the hydrogen-powered alternative fuel race.

Aimed at getting an early foothold in the FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) market, the Blue2 is named to represent Hyundai's Blue-Drive eco brand and the chemical symbol for hydrogen gas, H2.

Power for the Blue2 is provided by a 90kW electric motor and, according to Hyundai, it will return the equivalent of 2.8 l/100km when compared to a regular petrol engine with the same output.

To help it achieve those figures, the Blue2 is also fitted with low rolling-resistance tyres and alloy wheels designed to improve aerodynamic performance.

On the styling front, the Blue2's "Intersected Flow" design represents a significant departure from Hyundai's current "fluidic sculpture" look.

Hyundai describes the new design approach as sporty and futuristic, its exterior designing flowing into the interior, with an asymmetrical dashboard and seats that are designed to allow easier entry and exit - helped further by automatic doors.

Interestingly, Hyundai says the Blue2's styling is also "a blueprint for future sedans." Watch for future Hyundai models to begin showing hints of the Blue2 Concept.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Unveils Blue2 Concept in Seoul

Hyundai has pulled the sheets off its Blue2 FCEV Concept at this week's Seoul Motor Show, offering a preview of its plans in the hydrogen-powered alternative fuel race.

Aimed at getting an early foothold in the FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) market, the Blue2 is named to represent Hyundai's Blue-Drive eco brand and the chemical symbol for hydrogen gas, H2.

Power for the Blue2 is provided by a 90kW electric motor and, according to Hyundai, it will return the equivalent of 2.8 l/100km when compared to a regular petrol engine with the same output.

To help it achieve those figures, the Blue2 is also fitted with low rolling-resistance tyres and alloy wheels designed to improve aerodynamic performance.

On the styling front, the Blue2's "Intersected Flow" design represents a significant departure from Hyundai's current "fluidic sculpture" look.

Hyundai describes the new design approach as sporty and futuristic, its exterior designing flowing into the interior, with an asymmetrical dashboard and seats that are designed to allow easier entry and exit - helped further by automatic doors.

Interestingly, Hyundai says the Blue2's styling is also "a blueprint for future sedans." Watch for future Hyundai models to begin showing hints of the Blue2 Concept.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Unveils Blue2 Concept in Seoul

Hyundai has pulled the sheets off its Blue2 FCEV Concept at this week's Seoul Motor Show, offering a preview of its plans in the hydrogen-powered alternative fuel race.

Aimed at getting an early foothold in the FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) market, the Blue2 is named to represent Hyundai's Blue-Drive eco brand and the chemical symbol for hydrogen gas, H2.

Power for the Blue2 is provided by a 90kW electric motor and, according to Hyundai, it will return the equivalent of 2.8 l/100km when compared to a regular petrol engine with the same output.

To help it achieve those figures, the Blue2 is also fitted with low rolling-resistance tyres and alloy wheels designed to improve aerodynamic performance.

On the styling front, the Blue2's "Intersected Flow" design represents a significant departure from Hyundai's current "fluidic sculpture" look.

Hyundai describes the new design approach as sporty and futuristic, its exterior designing flowing into the interior, with an asymmetrical dashboard and seats that are designed to allow easier entry and exit - helped further by automatic doors.

Interestingly, Hyundai says the Blue2's styling is also "a blueprint for future sedans." Watch for future Hyundai models to begin showing hints of the Blue2 Concept.

[Source: Hyundai]

Kia Releases Second Teaser of Detroit-Bound KV7 Concept

Having already released a computer rendering of its upcoming KV7 Concept, Kia released a new teaser for the MPV concept today with a small snippet of the actual car ahead of its debut at the Detroit Auto Show. The automaker however did not disclose any new details about the car.

According to Kia, the KV7 Concept is "conceived as a challenge to the industry's current interpretation of the van", and "incorporates several innovative lighting elements currently being evaluated for future Kia production vehicles."

The media preview day for the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit will be taking place on this coming Monday, January 10th. Stay tuned for more information as they become available.

[Source: Kia]

Hyundai Curb Concept Teased Ahead of Detroit Debut

The Veloster will not be the only highlight for Hyundai at the forthcoming Detroit Auto Show taking place next week, as the Korean firm released two renderings of a new crossover concept called the Curb today.

Hyundai is mum on details of the Curb Concept, other than the fact that it was penned by the folks at the company's California Design Center. According to the company, the Curb's styling is an evolution of the "fluidic sculpture" design language seen on the latest Sonata and Elantra sedans.

The official unveiling of the Curb will take place on Monday, January 10th at Cobo Hall in Detroit. Stay tuned for more information as they become available.



[Source: Hyundai]

Boxy Much? Kia to Unveil KV7 Concept in Detroit

Kia Motors announced on Friday it will unveil its KV7 concept car at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show on Jan. 10.

The box-shaped crossover features a high ceiling for a more spacious interior and rear seats that can swivel 360 degrees. While the front doors open normally, the rear passenger doors open gull-wing style, lifting upwards and out.

"This is a concept car, and the upwards-opening rear doors will not show up on mass-produced cars in the near future," the automaker said. "But other features and the exterior design are very similar to a new crossover utility vehicle which will be launched in September next year."

[Source: Kia]

Peugeot RC HYmotion4 Concept Racing Car

With Citroen, Peugeot RC HYmotion4 is a field that is increasingly cluttered with hybrid concepts using a new system that can take the road to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. Fortunately for Peugeot, they have managed not just recycle or rebadge an existing model, but have incorporated this technology into an boldly attractive four door GT coupe.

Peugeot has joined sister-brand Citroen by releasing a concept vehicle based on the new HYmotion4 AWD hybrid system. The new concept is according to Peugeot, a ‘Touring Car Coupe’ that features a number of engineering and technological ideas expected to make their way, if only gradually, into both of the carmaker’s future production models. Unlike the hybrid systems used by current production vehicles, this concept has no direct mechanical connection between the electric and internal combustion drive systems. This way, the RC can operate in either rear, front, or all-wheel-drive modes. That means it can also operate using internal combustion, electric only or blended mode combining both. Propelling this concept is a rear mounted turbocharged 1.6 liter engine driving the rear wheels and producing 218 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque. Up front, an electric motor provides up to another 132 lb-ft of torque and provides a governed combined production of 313 horsepower. This sort of power pays of with acceleration to 62 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The electrons are stored in a lithium-ion battery pack of an as unreleased size, but having the electric motor at the front instead of the rear axle means that more kinetic energy can be recaptured through the regenerative braking process. According to Peugeot, the RC can get 52.3 mpg with a minimum output of just 109 g/km of CO2 emissions.

Other Hymotion4 concepts in the mix for the future include Peugeot’s Prologue, which previews an upcoming 3008 crossover, as well as the Citroen Hypnos and C4 WRC rally car. These concepts, according to the manufacturer, are a synthesis of ideas that demonstrate a commitment to both respecting the environment and driving pleasure. If all of the technology that is used within this concept lives up to the manufacturer claims, the French may have the inside track in future hybrid production.

SEMA 2010 Preview: Hyundai Equus Gets the Rhys Millen Racing Treatment

Hyundai's partnership with racer and tuner Rhys Millen has fared well for the automaker, and the upcoming SEMA Show will bear testimony to more evidence regarding that statement.

The 2010 SEMA Show will be host to the 2011 Hyundai Equus bearing the RMR signature, which is short for Rhys Millen Racing. This special edition launch will be the third consecutive year when Hyundai flaunts off the RMR insignia in Las Vegas.

And here goes what you have been waiting for- the new edition delivers 415 horsepower, a 30 horsepower addition to the stock figure using Hyundai’s 4.6-liter Tau V8. This is accomplished with an RMR bolt-on cold air intake and stainless steel exhausts, with a 14-inch brake kit thrown in to make the sedan screech to halt faster.

The exterior looks bold with two-tone carbon fiber and Red Bull Racing blue satin paint scheme, while the set of HRE 21-inch P40 wheels take care of the rest. The passengers will be lavished upon with an elaborate swathing of ostrich leather and suede.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Sonata Turbo to be Spruced Up For SEMA 2010 [Motor Trend]

Nate Martinez [Motor Trend] - Joining Hyundai's ARK Performance Genesis Coupe time attack car at this year's SEMA Show will be a pearl white 2011 Sonata Turbo built with luxury and style in mind. Unfortunately, this is the only teaser image we received from Hyundai.

Fabricators say that Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, and Porsche sports cars inspired their design direction. Its aggressive exterior lines, for example, take much from the Brabus CLS Rocket. The car rides on 20-inch one-piece wheels as well, much like the Rocket.READ MORE at the link below!

[Source: Motor Trend]

Kia POP Electric Car Concept Revealed Ahead of Paris Debut

Kia has just released new images of the POP Concept, ahead of the concept's debut in Paris. The Kia POP was designed by the company's European design team under the direction of Peter Schreyer, Kia’s Chief Design Officer, and Gregory Guillaume, Kia Europe's Chief Designer.

"A concept car like the Kia POP could only have come from us," explains Gregory Guillaume. "Designers very rarely have the opportunity to start from a clean sheet of paper and it’s great to be in a position to operate with such freedom."

Unfortunately, the company did not release any additional information regarding the Kia POP. What we do know so far about the Kia POP concept
is that it's a three-meter long three-seater powered by an electric motor. The seating configuration of the Kia POP includes a front bench and an additional rear seat. The Kia POP also seems to have a "different" door opening mechanism.

We'll have more details on the Kia POP concept at the time of its premiere in France next week.

[Source: Kia]

READ MORE for more images of the Kia POP Concept!

Hyundai Unveils BlueOn, South Korea's First Electric Car

Hyundai Motor Co. joined the global race to lead the market for electric vehicles with its first full-speed electric vehicle, BlueOn, on Thursday. The vehicle, which took 40 billion won ($34 million) and about a year to develop, is based on the facelifted version of Hyundai’s subcompact i10, which is sold exclusively in overseas markets. The BlueOn gives us an early glimpse of the refreshed i10 due for debut at Paris next month.

READ MORE for the full article.


Fitted with an electric motor capable of producing up to 61 kilowatts of power, and 16.4 kilowatt-hour lithium ion polymer battery pack, the vehicle is an exact match to the Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric car in terms of hardware. However, by adding a number of new features including the active hydraulic booster system that recharges the battery using the energy generated while braking, the company was able to extend the driving range offered by a fully charged battery pack.

Using the technology, the company extended the BlueOn’s driving range to 140 kilometers, surpassing the Mitsubishi i-MiEV’s 130 kilometers, despite both vehicles having the same battery capacity.

The BlueOn is also fitted with a number of components such as the motor-driven power steering and electronic brake oil pressure amplifier that help to improve the battery efficiency, the company said. The vehicle is also fitted with an on-board charger that allows the battery pack to be charged using the standard 220 volt household electrical outlet. Using 220 volt outlets, the vehicle can be charged to 90 percent capacity in six hours, and to 80 percent capacity in 25 minutes using the 380 volt rapid charging system. In comparison, the i-MiEV requires seven hours using the standard system and 30 minutes using the rapid charge system.

In terms of performance, both vehicles have the same top speed of 130 kilometer per hour, but with zero-to-100 kilometers per hour acceleration time of 13.1 seconds Hyundai BlueOn offers higher acceleration than its Japanese counterpart.

Hyundai, which hailed the car as South Korea's first full-speed electric vehicle, said that it plans to deliver 30 of them on a test basis to various South Korean government organizations by October and aims to manufacture 2,500 by the end of 2012.

[Source: Hyundai]

2010 Paris Preview: Hyundai ix20

Hyundai is set to unveil an all-new production model, dubbed the ix20, at the Paris Auto Show later this month, in the form of a subcompact crossover that will share its platform with the i20 and Kia Venga, revealed late last year.

The ix20 is the latest of Hyundai's new models to adopt the company's 'Fluidic Sculpture' design language, already visible on the likes of the Sonata-replacing i45 and the Tucson-replacing ix35.

Designed and developed at Hyundai's German studios, the ix20 is described as a "striking departure from the boxy 'minivan' image typically associated with the segment."

Hyundai is keeping technical details close to its chest for now, but we can likely expect the ix20 to share the same 1.4 litre diesel and 1.1 and 1.4 litre petrol engines as the Venga.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Unveils RB Concept in Moscow, Preview of Accent for Other Markets?

Hyundai took the wraps off the "RB" Concept at the Moscow International Auto Show today. And all we can say is, "That looks eerily familiar." That's because the RB Concept is essentially a thinly decorated version of the next-generation Accent (Verna in several markets) that was already unveiled in production guise for the Chinese market in Beijing.

The RB (which also happens to be the code-name of the next Accent) Concept sports a new front fascia that evokes the Fluidic Sculpture design theme observed by Hyundai's as of late. Other differences from the Chinese-market Verna are purely due to the RB's "Concept" namesake, with LED foglamps and taillamps, projector headlamps, as well as body-integrated dual exhausts that will not make the cut for the production car.

Hyundai officials confirmed that, at least for the Russian market, the new Accent will be powered by either a 1.4L or 1.6L Gamma engine. Featuring multiport fuel injection and CVVT or Continuously Variable Valve Timing, the 1.4 liter engine makes 107 PS and 135Nm of torque while the more potent 1.6 liter produces 124PS and 156Nm of torque. Both will be mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Now here's the interesting part. Remember that spyshot of the mysterious sub-compact prototype that befuddled us as to what it really was? Yes, that prototype is indeed the production version of the RB Concept, as the front fascia beneath the camo of the test car matches that of the RB Concept. What we can infer from this finding is that the Chinese-market Verna will most likely stay in China, as Hyundai has a tendency to tart up its cars exclusively for that market like this one. Meanwhile, the RB Concept is likely to be our best glimpse of the Accent destined for other markets like North America, Europe, Australia and South Korea.

[Source: Hyundai]

READ MORE for a full gallery of hi-res images of the RB Concept.

Geneva Preview: Hyundai's i-Flow Concept

An all-new concept car is set to catch the ‘i’ of visitors to the Geneva Motor Show next month. Hyundai has chosen the event to reveal the i-flow, a stylish saloon that previews the look of its new D-segment contender.

Styled at the company’s European design headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany, i-flow is expected to attract much attention, thanks to its striking appearance – the latest product of the company’s evocative new form language, ‘fluidic sculpture’. The name i-flow reflects the exceptionally aerodynamic shape and the flowing lines of the concept car’s eye-catching styling, and retains the ‘i’ prefix of Hyundai’s established nomenclature.

The i-flow incorporates numerous new technologies from chemical company BASF, ranging from innovative lightweight materials to solar cells, to assist in reducing weight and improving energy efficiency.

[Source: Hyundai]

Chicago: Kia Ray Plug-In Hybrid Concept

Kia Motors America has unveiled the Ray Plug-in Hybrid concept at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The Ray features a roof top "cool-glazing" solar glass, drive-by-wire steering, touch screen controls, and a lithium-polymer battery.

The 173-inch-long car's striking shape includes a single piece of glass that extends over the hood, and another that starts at the cowl of the windshield and goes all the way back to the rear header.

The "cool-glazing" part includes nano-laminate films and other materials that reduce solar heat, and helps keep the interior cool with lighter a/c loads and greenhouse emissions. The cells also trickle charge a cooling fan to reduce interior temperatures whenever the car is parked in the sun.

Kia claims the concept can travel over 50 miles using its electric motor alone, has a 109 mph top speed, and has an effective fuel economy of over 202 miles per gallon. Total range is 746 miles. Kia said the Ray is the first of what will be many cars in the company's new sub-brand, EcoDynamics.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading to view more images.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/egmcartech/sets/72157623403919966/show/

Spied: 2012 Hyundai Veloster (First Shots)

The first photos of the 2012 Hyundai Veloster Coupe have surfaced. Apparently snapped during cold weather testing in South Korea, the photos show a car which has begun to evolve from the two-door Veloster concept shown at the 2007 Seoul Auto Show.

n the view of the car's full length the Veloster's exaggerated wheel arch is shown. Unlike the concept, it appears to taper off into the sidesill. The car still maintains a steeply-raked windshield, cresting at the intersection with the roof, which then slants downwards in less dramatic fashion than the concept.

The shape of the rear is not terribly clear, but taillight placement looks to be similar to the concept. The cutout in the cover also implies that the car has kept triangular-shaped headlights. We do like the interesting center-placement of dual-exhaust pipes, something carried over and modified from the concept.

Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik has indicated that the production version of the Veloster will retain at least 70% of the concept's styling. it will use a 140-horsepower 1.6-liter direct-injection engine capable of 40mpg. A turbocharged, 175-hp engine is also expected. One transmission option will likely be a dual-clutch automatic box.

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster will likely hit showrooms by the end of 2010 or the beginning of 2011. In the U.S. it may be used to replace the Tiburon coupe.

Continue reading to view one more image.

Hennessey Builds 500 HP Carbon Fiber Genesis Coupe: SEMA 2009

PRESS RELEASE: HENNESSEY TUNER SCHOOL TRANSFORMS HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE INTO 500-HORSEPOWER BEAST FOR SEMA

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 10/29/2009 - Demonstrating the wide range of aftermarket potential for the Genesis Coupe, Hyundai Motor America has partnered with Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) and the Tuner School to develop a powerful entry for this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The matte black, carbon fiber-wrapped Hennessey Genesis Carbon Coupe is designed with a high-end European look and performance capabilities to match. The vehicle will be in Hyundai’s display at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 3–6, 2009 (booth # 24387).

Founded by HPE president John Hennessey, Tuner School is a 14-week program dedicated to teaching its students the secrets to success in the high-performance automotive aftermarket. It was established as a way to offer its students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to hone their craft, learn from professionals in the field, and springboard their career in the aftermarket industry.

“The Genesis Coupe architecture is the ideal platform for tuners looking to make everyday modifications to their vehicles and our students at the Tuner School took full advantage,” said Hennessey. “The visually stunning complete carbon fiber matte black wrap and high-end performance benchmarks create a monster SEMA car.”

[Source: Hyundai Motor America]

HPE and the Tuner School will blow away the SEMA crowd with its Genesis Coupe achieving 500 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 465 lb-ft of torque, an estimated 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds and a quarter mile time of 12.5 seconds. These aggressive performance capabilities were accomplished through a variety of engine modifications. The Genesis Carbon Coupe features a Hennessey Custom Single Turbo System, Precision 66 mm ball bearing turbocharger, Tial blow-off valve and 44 mm wastegate, a HKS boost controller and upgraded injectors and fuel pump, among other additions.

“To work with a leading tuner such as John Hennessey and his Tuner School is a testament to the potential of our rear-wheel-drive Genesis Coupe,” said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “With its 500 horsepower and 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds we expect this vehicle to be one of the stars of SEMA.”

On the outside, SEMA Show attendees will find Savini lightweight wheels with chrome lips and silver centers, Eibach springs and Brembo lightweight rotors.

HENNESSEY TUNER SCHOOL

Tuner School's unique curriculum immerses its students in a combination of classroom education and hands-on experience, all while surrounded by the day-to-day operations of HPE's 30,000+ square-foot facility. Spanning a range of horsepower-induced topics, including engine building, forced induction and dyno testing, Tuner School covers all aspects of building and modifying some of the fastest cars in the world. With dozens of high-horsepower vehicles coming and going, students are placed in a rare position to experience every nuance of working within a high-performance automotive business. For more information, please visit www.TunerSchool.com.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 790 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. In addition, Hyundai Assurance is now offered on all new vehicles leased or purchased from a certified Hyundai dealer. The program is available to any consumer, regardless of age, health, employment record or financed amount of the vehicle. The program is complimentary for the first 12 months.