Hyundai unveiled its first plug-in HEV concept car at the recent Seoul motor show. Named Blue-Will, the futuristic car promises an electric-only driving distance of up to 64 km on a single charge and a fuel economy rating of up to 2.2 litres/100 km. Blue-Will is a test bed of new ideas that range from the unique profile to drive-by-wire steering and touch screen controls.
The car is the fourth in a series of innovative concept vehicles to come out of the Namyang Design Center currently headed by Oh Suk-Geun, executive vice-president of design.
“The innovative form language gives perfect expression to the advanced eco-friendly technologies found on Blue-Will,” said Oh. “At a time of rising concern about the environment and our energy future, Blue Will demonstrates to eco-conscious car buyers everywhere that Hyundai has practical hybrid solutions that will appear on the next generation of vehicles,” he added.
Blue-Will’s sleek surface treatment extends to the underbody where a full-length cover has been applied to minimize aerodynamic drag whilst maximizing fuel economy.
The LED panel on the front expresses a highly distinctive, futuristic image. The rear bike rack, integrated into the trunk, adds convenience. To minimize weight, carbon-fibre reinforced plastics and nano composites have been applied to the side sills, moldings and fenders.
The conventional gauge cluster has been replaced by an ultra-thin Transparent Organic Light Emitting Diode display mounted on the steering column which is adjustable for rake and distance.
Thin-film TOLED technology allows information to be displayed in full high resolution colour.
The Blue-Will concept is powered by an all-aluminum 152 hp gasoline direct injected 1.6L engine, coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of the new Hyundai.
This parallel hybrid drive architecture serves as the foundation for future Hyundai hybrids, starting with the next-generation Sonata for North America.
