Hyundai Blue-Will hybrid concept; detailed information
During the 2009 Seoul Auto Show last week, Hyundai unveiled already its fourth highly innovative concept vehicle that packs advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain technology, solar cells and Lithium ion battery pack.
Called Hyundai Blue Will, the concept car has been designed at Hyundais design and research center located in Namyang (South Korea). The futuristic car is considered to be a test bed of new car ideas that range from unique design to drive-by-wire steering and touch screen controls.
The four-seater concept car is propelled by an all-aluminum Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6L that generates 152 horsepower and mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission. Both are coupled with a 100kw electric motor, which is also considered to be the heart of Hyundais proprietary parallel hybrid drive architecture.
The overall package promises an electric-only driving distance of up to 64km (40 miles) on a single charge and a fuel economy rating of up to 2.2 liters/100 km (106 mpg -US).
A few days ago, Hyundai has issued some press material on its Blue Will concept car, which provides some detailed information on cars design and powertrain technology. You can read it after the jump…
Hyundai Blue Will: Exterior
“Eco-sleeker” was the core concept driving the design process. Its sweeping character lines and detailed form elevate this next generation hybrid to an entirely new level. 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, neatly integrated into the trunk, adds an extra measure of convenience. To minimize weight, advanced materials such as carbon-fiber reinforced plastics and nano composites have been applied to the side sills, moldings and fenders.
Recycled PET material was used for the headlamp bezel, while use has also been made of PLA and PA11 bio-plastics on interior and exterior parts.
Blue Will: Interior
Sleek and very modern designed cockpit. In our humbel opinion, far from production.
Thanks to the rapid advances in information technologies, designers have been a completely free hand to redefine the interior space achieving a “digital flow” throughout the cabin space. The conventional gauge cluster has been replaced by an ultra-thin Transparent Organic Light Emitting Diode display mounted on the steering column which is adjustable for rake and distance.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 color.
The center stack is normally a very busy area in terms of the number of controls that must be packed into a small area but HND-4 designers have achieved a remarkably simple and clean look thanks to high-tech touch-screen control technology which extends operability to the HVAC, drive (PRNDL) selector and infotainment systems.
The focal point is the Eco-Coach, a graphic display which helps promote fuel-saving driving habits by providing continuous feedback on fuel consumption and driving efficiency. Infotainment capabilities include Bluetooth-enabled speakers.
Hyundai concept technology
Energy from hot exhaust gases is recaptured by a thermal generator which is fitted into the exhaust manifold. The thermal generator then converts the heat into electrical energy to help power auxiliary systems.
Efficiencies are further improved by the specification of low-rolling resistance tires and low-drag brakes where special attention has been paid to the engineering of the brake pads and calipers.
Hyundai Blue Drive
The Blue-Will concept is powered by an all-aluminum 152hp Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6L which is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai’s proprietary parallel hybrid drive architecture.
Wheels are turned by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand. This parallel hybrid drive architecture serves as the foundation for future Hyundai hybrids, starting with the next-generation Sonata in the U.S.
For maximum luggage space, the fuel tank is under the rear seat where it is neatly bundled alongside the Lithium Ion Polymer battery which can be recharged using a household current.
Hyundai will be the first automaker in the world to apply Lithium Ion Polymer in a mass production vehicle this July when the Elantra LPI Hybrid Electric Vehicle goes on sale in Korea.
A further expression of the Blue-Will’s design flexibility is found on the panoramic roof where in a novel touch, the glass area integrates dye-sensitized solar cells without impeding visibility.
The solar cells provide a trickle charge that helps operate a cabin cooling fan, reducing interior temperatures while the car is parked in the sun.
