Rumor: Hyundai e-4WD Hybrid System To Be Available In 2016 Tucson

Hyundai and Kia have announced plans to dramatically expand their line-up of eco-friendly cars, with both brands expected to have a hybrid model made available in just about every segment.

Hyundai WIA, Korea’s second largest parts manufacturer and member of the Hyundai Motor Group, are expected to start mass production of an electric drive module to be used in SUVs sometime in the early part of 2015.

The working name of this technology, which will be mounted on SUV rear wheels, is the “e-4WD.” This system will deliver power to the rear, allowing the petrol engine to take care of the wheels in front.

Also included in this setup will be a regenerative braking system that is designed to charge the battery when the vehicle decelerates. The driver has the option of selectively controlling the e-4WD system from inside the vehicle.

It is believed that Hyundai WIA are in the final stages of developing the system, ahead of production starting in 2015.

It is expected that Hyundai’s next-generation Tucson (2016 Model Year), will have the system mounted, followed by the newest generation of the Kia Sportage.

A company source says that Hyundai will be focusing its attention on the hybrid market, as they believe that the potential there is bigger than the electric market. This is because of the current lack of charging station and infrastructure to accommodate electric vehicles.

All of that adds up to the Koreans expanding their existing Hybrid line-up, and it will all begin with the new generation Sonata Hybrid, which will be available by year end.