Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hyundai ix-Metro concept - Click above for high-res image gallery


Hyundai returned to Frankfurt a far bigger player than it was two years prior. The Korean company has leapt up the sales standings to become the world's fourth largest automaker, eclipsing such major players as Ford and Honda. And its product line has long since expanded from diminutive hatchbacks to include crossovers and luxury sedans. What better way, then, to mark its newfound stature than to unveil... a diminutive hatchback/crossover thing?

Of course, Hyundai also unveiled the new ix35 Tucson, but presented along side was the automaker's vision for a compact hybrid. Called the ix Metro, it may be about the same size as the Geo that once bore the same name, but packs more curves and creases into the same plot of real estate than a linen mill. Curiously, Hyundai hasn't provided any details on the electric component of the hybrid drivetrain, but the conventional side of the equation boasts direct injection, variable valve timing and a turbocharger in a tiny 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, driving through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The interior looks like something straight out of Star Trek, but don't take our word for it, check it out for yourself in the gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro





Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us

Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowhybridhyundaihyundai hybridhyundai ixhyundai ix metrohyundai metroHyundaiHybridHyundaiIxHyundaiIxMetroHyundaiMetroixmetroWed, 16 Sep 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid caught in the desert]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's first U.S.-bound hybrid is due to be released in late 2010, and the next-generation Sonata-based hybrid has its aim set on the stalwarts of the midsize sedan segment. As we can see from this series of spy shots, testing is well underway, with a heavily camouflaged 2011 Sonata Hybrid out and about with hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima in tow.

Hyundai has taken a slightly different approach to energy storage, using flat lithium polymer battery packs holding 5.3 Ah of capacity at 270 volts in lieu of nickel metal hydride or lithium ion technology. Expect the hybrid bits to add 30kW of power to Hyundai's 2.4-liter Theta II four cylinder powerplant mated up with a six-speed automatic transmission. A quick glance underhood shows the telltale bright orange wiring normally associated with hybrid automobiles.

A closer look at the spy photos shows that Hyundai will apply the popular four-door coupe trend to its next Sonata. We also clearly note radically sweeping headlamps that stretch all the way past the front wheel arches, a rising bodyside ridge and a vaguely Genesis-esque front grille treatment. Expect all of these styling elements on both the standard 2011 Sonata and its accompanying hybrid sibling.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

01-hysonata-hybrid-kgp03-hysonata-hybrid-kgp02-hysonata-hybrid-kgp04-hysonata-hybrid-kgp05-hysonata-hybrid-kgp

Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid caught in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai Blue-Will Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's first-ever hybrid automobile for the U.S. market will be based on the redesigned 2011 Sonata midsize sedan, but it certainly isn't the only fuel-saver the Korean automaker has in store. According to Automotive News, Yang Woong-chul, president of R&D for Hyundai-Kia Motors, has reiterated his company's plans to aggressively (if belatedly) enter the increasingly crowded hybrid market.

To that end, Hyundai plans to launch a new sporty plug-in electric car based on the striking Blue-Will concept from Seoul Motor Show earlier this year. Powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injected powerplant and 100kw electric motor mated up with a continuously variable transmission, the Blue-Will reportedly has a range of 38 miles in EV mode and an overall rating of 55 mpg when the gas engine is in operation.

Expect a similar drivetrain for the production car when it hits the market in 2012 to go up against the upcoming Chevrolet Volt and the plug-in version of Toyota's standard-bearing Prius hybrid. So far, there's no word on expected pricing for the PHEV, but Hyundai says the goal is to 'show its technology and improve its image,' not to make money. Consider our interest piqued.


Gallery: Hyundai BLUE-WILL hybrid concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Hyundai planning Blue-Will based sporty plug-in hybrid by 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Hyundai BLUE-WILL concept

Hyundai reportedly plans to put a plug-in hybrid into production for the U.S. by late 2012 that will be based on the oddly-styled BLUE-WILL concept that's currently being shown off at the Seoul Motor Show. We're not sure if features like the rooftop solar panels and headlamp bezels made from recycled drink bottles will make it to the sales floor, but a variant on the concept's plug-in parallel hybrid drivetrain sounds like a lock.

The BLUE-WILL is said to be capable of traveling about 38 miles on battery power before a 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injected powerplant kicks in to keep the party going. Hyundai says it expects the hybrid to earn an equivalent rating of 106 miles per gallon when running in EV mode and an overall rating of 55 mpg when the gas engine is in operation.

Though the Korean automaker isn't ready to talk price, Yang Woong-chul, Hyundai's president of R&D, says, "We want to show our technological image to get people to the dealerships to drive our cars. We are not necessarily trying to make money on hybrids." Based on Hyundai's recent success in entering new markets and taking on new competitors, Toyota, General Motors and Honda may have good reason to be worried.


Gallery: Hyundai BLUE-WILL hybrid concept


[Source: AutoWeek]

REPORT: Hyundai to offer plug-in hybrid in U.S. for 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenhybridhyundaihyundai blue willhyundai blue-willhyundai blue-will concepthyundai hybridhyundai phevhyundai plug-in hybridHyundaiBlue-willHyundaiBlue-willConceptHyundaiBlueWillHyundaiHybridHyundaiPhevHyundaiPlug-inHybridPHEVplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridThu, 02 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai Prius? Hybrid Sonata could have distinct shape, different name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Hyundai Sonata

When you think of the word "hybrid," what vehicle pops into your mind? Likely, it's the Toyota Prius, and that's what they call a really big win for the marketing department. Much of the success that Toyota's seminal hybrid model has achieved has been attributed to its unique styling, which sets the fuel-saver apart from other manufacturers' hybrids, making the ecomobile instantly recognizable. Those that care about saving the planet - or at least those who like the appearance of caring - often choose the Prius due to its iconic shape and name.

Woong-chul Yang, president of R&D for Hyundai-Kia Motors, says, "People who drive a hybrid like to be differentiated." Sounds painful. In any case, the automaker is reportedly working on giving their first hybrid model, which will be based on the Sonata midsize sedan, a distinct shape. To go along with the unique profile, the Korean hybrid may get a different name to further distance it from its non-hybrid sibling.

Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Hyundai Prius? Hybrid Sonata could have distinct shape, different name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai has decided not to wait until 2020 to get its fleet average fuel economy up to 35 mpg, aiming instead for 2015. That will provide several advantages for the Korean manufacturer, including earning credits for being ahead of the curve. Perhaps more importantly now that Democrats are controlling both Congress and the White House, there is a strong possibility that California may get its waiver for CO2 standards from the EPA. If that happens, Hyundai and everyone else will have to get well beyond 35 mpg. By targeting that amount by mid-decade, Hyundai will be a lot closer to the stricter targets.

Hyundai's strategy to get to 35 mpg is officially called Blue Drive. Blue Drive kicks off in 2009 with new "Blue" editions of the Accent and Elantra that will get better fuel economy at a lower price than current models. The following year, Hyundai's hybrid system will debut in the next generation Sonata along with a lithium-polymer battery. At about the same time a new CUV based on the HED-5 concept will go into production with a new 2.0L turbocharged direct injection engine. Over the following years, downsized turbo DI engines will also appear in other Hyundai models. You can read more about Hyundai's plans over at AutoblogGreen.

[Sources: AutoblogGreen, Hyundai]

Hyundai announces Blue Drive efficiency strategy, Sonata hybrid in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For three weeks in a row, now, we've brought you a new Autoblog Podcast courtesy of the B-Team. Here's episode #96 of the Autoblog Podcast, where Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, and Dan Roth kibbitz over some morsels of recent news. There's the requisite trip to the Autoblog Garage to start things off, then we move into actual discussion points like the CTS Wagon, a gasp of life on the Ford Ranger front, the massive confusion around Cerberus and Chrysler, and Hyundai's nose-thumbing at Toyota's hybrid technology. Remember to send in questions, comments, and suggestions for ways to mark the passing of upcoming episode #100 to podcast at autoblog dawt com. See you next week!

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Autoblog Podcast #96 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota pretty much has the hybrid market cornered right now with its Prius sedan, and the automaker is reaping the benefits of the model's fuel efficiency in the form of record sales. This fact also makes Toyota the envy of various other automakers, considering that their hybrid sales make up a sliver of the overall market. This being the case, nearly every competitor is currently developing advanced hybrid models of their own, including Hyundai, which plans on offering hybrid models for sale in the year 2010.

According to Hyundai CEO Dr. Kim Dong-Jin, its new hybrid technology is "more advanced than the Prius." Don-Jin goes even further, calling the best-selling hybrid model "now quite old-tech." The first Prius was designed back in the late '90s while the current model has been on sale since 2002, and we all know how quickly technology advances. Still, calling out the Prius, which is pretty much the preeminent green car in the world, before your answer to it is even on the market, isn't likely to win the Korean company any friends. Plus, a next-generation Prius with a new version of the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive in on its way and will likely reach showrooms by the time Hyundai begins offering its own hybrid. Yes Hyundai, your first hybrid may be better than today's Prius, but can it beat tomorrow's?

[Source: Autocar (print edition) via Winding Road]

CEO says Hyundai "green line more advanced than Prius" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 May 2008 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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