Hyundai BLUE-WILL concept headed for Seoul

Hyundai has just released info on its plug-in hybrid concept for the upcoming Seoul Motor Show. Called the BLUE-WILL, the concept features a direct-inject 1.6-liter gas engine mated to a CVT transmission and 100kw electric motor. The car features a state of the art lithium ion polymer batter pack that's packaged with the fuel tank below the rear seats, as well as a trick panoramic roof that integrates solar cells while still being able to see through. The BLUE-WILL also features eco-friendly plastics, with some components, like the headlamp bezels, made out of recycled plastic bottles and other plastics derived from plant extracts. We're not sure where the plug goes, but Hyundai claims the parallel hybrid can be tethered to a wall socket for extra amps.

The concept's five-door hatchback body style is striking with criss-crossing character lines on the body sides and a high rear deck lid. The thick C-pillars also turn into the center of the roof, leaving a window above each pair of doors. The BLUE-WILL's face has an angry look with its forward canted fascia that bends around on each side to blue-tinted headlights sweeping back up the fender. Koreans will get their first look at the BLUE-WILL when the Seoul Motor Show opens on April 2nd, and Hyundai will begin selling its first hybrid, the Elantra LPI Hybrid, in July in South Korea.

[Source: Hyundai]

PRESS RELEASE

BLUE-WILL – Hyundai charges in with advanced hybrid concept

* All-new concept car to be unveiled at Seoul Show
* Lithium-Ion batteries and a 1.6-litre direct-injection petrol engine
* Solar panels boost battery range

Hyundai has revealed the first pictures of an innovative plug-in hybrid concept car. Due to be revealed at the Seoul Motor Show which opens on April 2nd, the "BLUE-WILL", has exceptionally advanced technology crammed inside its striking bodyshell.

Recycled PET soft drink bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp bezels while use has also been made of bio-plastics: PLA for the interior while PA11 was specified for the engine cover. These materials are made from plants extract rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.

The BLUE-WILL concept is powered by an all-aluminium Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6-litre engine which is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai's parallel hybrid drive architecture.

Electric power, stored by a Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack, is neatly bundled with the fuel tank under the rear seat to maximise luggage space.

Hyundai will be the first automaker in the world to apply Lithium Ion Polymer in a mass production vehicle when the Elantra LPI Hybrid goes on sale in Korea in July this year.

A further expression of the concept's design flexibility is found on the panoramic roof. The glass area integrates dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

Further details of the concept will be revealed at a press conference on Hyundai's stand at the Seoul show.