Hyundai brings to life 'New Thinking. New Possibilities'

It’s been a while since the global unveiling of Hyundai’s ambitious new slogan, that brings direction to the Korean car makers efforts in exploring new territories in a fast changing automobile world. While Hyundai has aggressively pushed its new slogan across multiple platforms, many Hyundai fans are left wondering what they are to expect from the India’s largest exporter of passengers vehicles as it brings to life cars and concepts that will shape the future of Hyundai’s growing presence in the global market.

While, we are excited about the launch of Hyundai’s CVVT technology powered 1.6 liter Verna in India later this year (will continue to sell as the Accent model in international markets), the real showstopper at the Hyundai stall at the recently concluded Geneva Motor Show was the all-new, Europe-specific D-segment model, the i40.

Designed and engineered at Hyundai’s R&D headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the i40 was unveiled in the form of a tourer at the pristine Motor Show, and will presently meet the demands of European retail and fleet buyers. A 1.7-litre ‘U-II’ diesel engine emitting as little as 113 g/km of CO2, and a ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering higher torque, better fuel economy and lowered emission levels will power the new i40. 

Joining the i40 concept was another radical new design by the Korean car maker in the form of the new Veloster, the company’s groundbreaking all-new three-door coupe that also made its European debut at the Geneva Show. The Veloster features a unique 1+2 door configuration, which includes a rear door on the passenger side for greater useability, giving safe and easy access to the spacious interior without compromising the style and aesthetics of the coupe form.

VIDEO OF HYUNDAI UNVEILING THREE NEW MODELS TO A EUROPEAN AUDIENCE

AT THE 2011 SALON INTERNATIONAL DE L’AUTOMOBILE IN GENEVA

The Veloster redefines the sports coupe segment, with its unparalleled combination of real-world practicality, sporting looks and cutting-edge technology.  With Hyundai’s new six-speed double-clutch transmission and an efficient 1.6-litre GDI engine, the Veloster has CO2 emissions of just 132 g/km, completing the car’s innovative package.

The third and final model that made its European premiere was the Curb concept.  Codenamed HCD-12, the compact Urban Activity Vehicle (UAV) featuring next-generation styling influenced by Hyundai’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ form language.  The Curb will continue to serve as a test bed for future Hyundai Blue Link™ telematics technology, offering a broad range of connectivity options, and runs a 1.6-litre, 175 PS petrol engine.

Models under Hyundai’s Blue DriveTM Sub-brand

Hyundai also showcased the latest products being developed under its Blue DriveTM sub-brand, further demonstrating the company’s efforts to minimize emission levels of its automobiles. 

The ix35 FCEV is Hyundai’s third-generation fuel cell electric vehicle that includes a 55% improvement in driving range, a 15% increase in fuel efficiency and an 80% reduction in manufacturing costs compared to the previous generation. The current generation SUV can comfortably cover 650 kilometres on a single charge.

Another Blue Drive innovation on the Hyundai booth is Sonata HEV, the company’s first full hybrid, that was developed entirely in-house by Hyundai and includes several technical firsts.

The Hyundai BlueOn, powered by an innovative 16.4 kWh LiPoly (lithium-ion polymer) battery also sheds 30% of its former weight and 40% volume, allowing a 15% increase in efficiency as compared to other competing technologies. Its maximum power of 81 ps (61kW) and maximum torque of 21.4 kg/m (210Nm) carry the BlueOn to a top speed of 130 kph.