List Of Sonata Hybrid Differences And Improvements For 2013
Hyundai announced pricing and new improvements for 2013 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car (click here for latest Sonata pricing details).
Let’s take a look at the Sonata hybrid powertrain enhancements, improvements and differences for the 2013 Model Year.
Key improvements for increased fuel efficiency include:
Improved Aerodynamics
There are no changes to the body of the 2013 Sonata Hybrid, but it still has some differences that differentiate it from other Sonata models.
Front end and rear rear fasias have been re-shaoed with a deeper air dam and extender rocker panels, which allows air to flow over and around the body with little resistance.
35 kW Electric Motor
Hyundai engineers worked hard to ensure the battery stored more energy, and also took the time to increase the output onnthe traction motor from 30 kW to 35 kW.
The extra energy that the system pulls in is then used to deliver higher torque output in electric drive mode, even before the internal combustion engine is started.
That means that the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is now able to go further in all-electric mode.
That leads to an improvement in fuel economy and drivability. Energy capturing during regenerative braking is also improved thanks to the higher output electric motor.
Sonata Hybrid Starter Generator
The Sonata hybrid starter generator -HSG has been improved from 8.5 kW to 10.5 kW, providing improved charging capacity for seamless electric starts.
The HSG is most commonly used to improve clutch engagement during the synchronization of engine to transmission speed.
The primary traction motor and transmission are coupled in a way that means the hybrid battery cannot be charged when the vehicle is not in motion.
If the battery charge is low, the HSG will automatically start the engine so that the Lithium Polymer battery pack can receive a charge.
Releasing the brake and depressing the accelearator will result in a smooth, silent start while the Sonata is in electric mode with the clutch disengaged.
It’s here where the car will most behave like a series hybrid. It’s only when the car starts to move and extra torque is required that the clutch will then engage, sending tractive effort through the transmission.
Advanced Lithium Polymer Batteries
There are many things to admire about the 47 kW lithium polymer battery pack in the 2013 Sonata Hybrid, with the fact that it is more powerful and enegery dense, yet smaller and lighter being one of the most impressive features.
The weight has dropped from 92.4 pounds to 87.8 pounds, with the volume going from 10.7 cu. ft. To 12.1 cu. ft.
The fact that the efficiency has been so greatly improved means that the batter pack is now better at charging from the engine and recovering kinetic energy when the vehicle brakes.
The system has been optimized in a way that allows the battery to store more usable energy. That means more all-electric driving which save fuel and cuts down on emissions.
Exclusive Lifetime Battery Warranty
Included with the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is the Hybrid Lifetime Battery Warranty.
The addition of the warranty expands the benefits that already come with the Hyundai Assurance, which is already the best warranty in the industry with a 10-year powertrain guarantee.
Hyundai’s Lifetime Hybrid Battery Warranty gives Sonata owners peace of mind in knowing that should they ever need to replace their lithium-polymer battery, all of the costs of replacement and recycling will be taken care of by Hyundai.
The coverage cannot be transferred and is not available to lease or commercial vehicles, as well as those serviced outside the US. [Source: Hyundai Motor America]
