According to Yang Woong-chul, president of Hyundai-Kia Motors' research and development division, Hyundai has high hopes for the hybrid/plug-in segment of the market, and plans to "be the world leader in fuel economy and alternative fuels."
The BLUE-WILL concept is powered by an all-aluminum gasoline direct injected 1.6l engine, matted onto a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and an 100kw electric motor. The vehicle also draws power from the panoramic roof's integrated sensitized solar cells. The battery pack is fitted, together with the fuel tank, under the rear seats to maximize luggage space.
The concept can go for as much as 38 miles (60 km) in electric mode only, while fuel consumption ratings stands at 106 mpg (2.2l/100 km) in plug-in mode and up to 55 (4.2l/100 km) in hybrid mode.
Almost every part on this car has been developed in-house. That will make it possible to make this vehicle affordable," Yang said, without giving any other details about the projected price of the BLUE-WILL based plug-in.
"We want to show our technological image to get people to the dealerships to drive our cars," said the official. "We are not necessarily trying to make money on hybrids."
Hyundai's "technological image" will not be used, at least for now, on any of the sister's brand Kia models.
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