- Latest technological advancements from company’s Blue DriveTM sub-brand
- BlueOn travels 140 kilometres and can be recharged within 25 minutes
- Blue Drive vehicles powered by super-efficient Li-Poly battery
Frankfurt, Tuesday, 13 September 2011 − At the 2011
(IAA), Hyundai is displaying two models which feature the latest technological advancements developed under the company’s Blue DriveTM sub-brand. The eco-focused Blue Drive programme is driving the company towards its target of global automotive leadership in the field of environmental sustainability.
The two models on display are the BlueOn electric vehicle (EV) and Sonata hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).
BlueOn EV
The BlueOn is making its second European appearance at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show. The full-speed EV is based on Hyundai’s small hatchback, i10.
BlueOn is equipped with a highly-efficient electric motor powered by an innovative 16.4 kWh LiPoly (lithium-ion polymer) battery that offers numerous advantages over other battery types, such as nickel-metal hydride batteries (NiMH), including delivery of the same power with 30 per cent less weight and 40 per cent less volume; boosting efficiency by 15 per cent; and leaving more interior space for passengers.
Boasting maximum power of 81ps (61kW) and maximum torque of 21.4kg/m (210Nm), the BlueOn has a top speed of 130 kph, and 0-100 kph can be achieved in 13.1 seconds.
BlueOn can travel as far as 140 kilometres on a single charge. It also accommodates dual recharging methods, via either 220V household power or 380V industrial-strength power that promises quick recharging speeds. Using household power, the battery will be fully recharged within six hours. The quick charge method sees the battery recharged to about 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes.
Hyundai has supplied the Korean government with a fleet of BlueOn vehicles until August 2012, providing an opportunity to develop and test charging infrastructures before making a decision on mass production.
Sonata HEV
Another exciting eco-focused model appearing in Frankfurt is the Sonata HEV. Hyundai’s first full hybrid was designed and developed for the North American market, where sales began at the beginning of 2011.
Achieving 40 miles to the gallon (US mpg), the car was entirely developed in-house by Hyundai and includes several technical firsts. These innovations allow the Sonata HEV to provide performance and efficiency improvements not available in other hybrids.
The Sonata Hybrid can be driven in zero emissions, fully electric drive mode, at speeds of up to 62 miles per hour, or in blended gas-electric mode. When the car comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine is shut down to completely eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions.
Like the BlueOn, at the heart of Sonata HEV’s powertrain is the LiPoly (lithium-ion polymer) battery. Hyundai is the first automaker in the world to incorporate this remarkably efficient battery technology into production vehicles. The improved efficiency means that more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine will be available to propel the car when needed, allowing the Sonata HEV to provide electric driving boost more often and for longer periods of time.
Hyundai currently has no plans to launch the Sonata HEV in the European market.
