Geneva 2008 preview: Hyundai HED-5 and more

At the Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai basically gave the green crowd an i-Blue rerun. For Geneva, the Korean company is bringing out some fresh goods. The coolest will likely be the HED-5 concept (above), a six-seat crossover that is supposed to get "exceptional fuel economy." Hyundai isn't saying much about the HED-5 other than it is made with "revolutionary materials and construction techniques have been developed in co-operation with innovation partners such as Recaro, Bayer and LG." That last name, which I think is LG Chem, has been working with Hyundai on a hybrid car, and possibly a plug-in.

Other Hyundai offerings will include "low-emission versions of Hyundai production models" and a "new package of innovations" that can reduce CO₂ emissions by 29 percent "without punitive penalties in price, performance or driving enjoyment. This 'near production' package represents a realistic and achievable advance in reduced emissions and fuel consumption." Stay tuned.

[Source: Hyundai]

Press release:

HYUNDAI AT THE 2008 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

HED-5 concept: six-seater with advanced materials and versatility
World premiere of a range of Eco-Dynamic vehicles
World premiere of the new Matrix

A stunning new concept car, low-emission versions of Hyundai production models and a facelifted version of the Matrix will make the Hyundai stand a 'must-see' at the Geneva motor show next month.

Star attraction will be the HED-5, a six seat MPV that promises a new level of versatility combined with exceptional fuel economy. The revolutionary materials and construction techniques have been developed in co-operation with innovation partners such as Recaro, Bayer and LG.

As a company that has always prided itself on environmental friendliness and innovation, the challenge of reducing emissions from its range was irresistible to Hyundai.

A new package of innovations to be revealed at the show demonstrates how existing technology can make a significant (up to 29 percent) reduction in CO2 emissions, without punitive penalties in price, performance or driving enjoyment. This "near production" package represents a realistic and achievable advance in reduced emissions and fuel consumption.

Another model making its debut will be the 2008 Matrix mini MPV. The exterior styling is given a contemporary new look and is complemented by a refreshed range of colours. The interior is also adapted to bring it into line with other current Hyundai models.

A press conference will take place at the Hyundai stand in Hall 1, Booth 1031.1 on March 4th at 15.45 PM.