Hyundai Motor reveals technological innovations that support its advanced hybrid system in a lightweight body with a transmission system that improves fuel economy.
Electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid engine available in a single type for the first time worldwide
At the presentation of the model to the South Korean media at an event held at the Hyundai Motors Research & Technology Centre in Namyang, the latest aspects of the IONIQ - as the next generation of hybrid vehicles - were also confirmed.
Mr. Rag Jung, Head of Project Management Division of Hyundai Motors' Research & Technology Center said, "The IONIQ embodies a new way of thinking for Hyundai Motor and a bold ambition for the future. This world-class exclusive hybrid vehicle will be the starting point of the automotive future. "
Lightweight body with specialised design
Built on a chassis created exclusively to carry the world's first choice of three ultra-low emission powertrains, the IONIQ boasts a 53% Advanced High Strength Steel (AHS) figure that is cleverly combined with lightweight aluminium. The new model saves 12.6kg (45%) of the weight of non-rigid body parts such as the bonnet, tailgate and suspension components which are cast from aluminium. Where a strong structure is necessary to absorb impact energy, the structure features ultra-high strength steel that can withstand significant impact stresses.
The new model has been created with dynamic driving behaviour at its core, a feature that defines the IONIQ and sets it apart from other hybrid vehicles. Placing the car's batteries low and forward achieves a low centre of gravity that allows for high responsiveness and stable cornering.
The IONIQ further enhances driving pleasure by having a double lower multi-link suspension arm mounted at the rear.
IONIQ: the advanced hybrid system
The full range of the IONIQ will include an all-electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid range of vehicles, a world first for a model. At its launch in Korea, details of the first version to be launched - that of the hybrid - were revealed.
With the world's highest thermal efficiency (40%), the new 1.6-liter Kappa GDi engine developed exclusively for Hyundai Motor's hybrid engines is combined with the permanent magnet electric motor to deliver a maximum power output of 105ps and 43.5ps for motor and motor respectively.
Inside the engine, the top 40% thermal performance is achieved while the head and block are separated for optimized cooling. In addition, 6-hole direct injection injectors at the high pressure of 200 bar further improve fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
At the same time, the polymer lithium-ion battery provides excellent charging and discharging performance, optimising the power delivered by the high-voltage motor and enabling rapid regeneration. Power distribution is controlled by a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) exclusively designed for hybrid drive, thanks to which the IONIQ offers an unprecedented dynamic driving experience. The IONIQ is class-leading in minimised transmission losses, delivering 95.7% of power from the engine to the wheels. In doing so, the IONIQ delivers quick response, high acceleration and smooth gear changes that bring a smile to the driver's face, while delivering the economy of hybrid technology.
