Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Hyundai Offers Tucson Fuel Cell Hydrogen-Powered Electric Vehicle To Retail Customers In Spring 2014

Hyundai today announced plans to offer its next-generation Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle for the U.S. market for just $499 per month, including unlimited free hydrogen refueling and At Your Service Valet Maintenance at no extra cost. For the first time, retail consumers will be able to put a mass-produced, federally certified hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in their driveways, with availability beginning in Spring 2014 at several Southern California Hyundai dealers.

"Hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles represent the next generation of zero-emission vehicle technology, so we're thrilled to be a leader in offering the mass-produced, federally certified Tucson Fuel Cell to retail customers," said John Krafcik, president and chief executive officer, Hyundai Motor America. "The superior range and fast-fill refueling speed of our Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle contrast with the lower range and slow-charge characteristics of competing battery electric vehicles. We think fuel cell technology will increase the adoption rate of zero-emission vehicles, and we'll all share the environmental benefits."

FUEL CELL PRICING AND BENEFITSThe Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell will initially be offered to customers in the Los Angeles/Orange County region for $499 per month for a 36-month term, with $2,999 down. This includes the addition of a remarkable new addition to the Hyundai Assurance program –unlimited free hydrogen refueling. "When we spoke to customers interested in driving a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, many wondered what the cost of hydrogen would be," said John Krafcik. "To ease those concerns as we build-out the hydrogen refueling network, we thought covering this cost for these early adopters in the monthly payment was the best approach, and consistent with other aspects of our Hyundai Assurance program. It's our way of saying: 'This is another thing you don't have to worry about, we've got your back.'"

In addition, Tucson Fuel Cell owners will enjoy all the same services of the Hyundai Equus "At Your Service" valet program. As Equus owners have enjoyed since its introduction in 2010, should a Tucson Fuel Cell require any service, a Hyundai dealer will pick up the vehicle and provide a loaner, then return their car after service to their home or business, at no charge. 

Customers interested in the Tucson Fuel Cell can indicate their interest (the first step in the ordering process) beginning today by visiting Hyundai.com.

The first four Hyundai dealers to offer the Tucson Fuel Cell to Southern California customers are Hardin Hyundai in Anaheim, Win Hyundai in Carson, Keyes Hyundai in Van Nuys and Tustin Hyundai, with additional Hyundai dealers to follow. Availability of the Tucson Fuel Cell will expand to other regions of the country consistent with the accelerating deployment of hydrogen refueling stations.

THE NEXT-GENERATION ELECTRIC VEHICLETo achieve societal goals of significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, more and more consumers will need to drive zero-emissions vehicles. Currently, there's an ongoing debate about the future of the electric vehicle, with two schools of thought:
  1. Store more electricity on-board using more/larger batteries
  2. Create electricity on-board with hydrogen-powered fuel cell technology
Developed over 100 years ago, the battery electric vehicle has made progress in recent years, with improved affordability and energy storage capability. But for most consumers, range anxiety and lengthy recharging time remain formidable obstacles to using them in their daily lives. In addition, affordable electric vehicle technology is best suited to smaller urban vehicles, not larger family and utility vehicles that many families require to meet all of their needs. Because of the inherent weight and cost of batteries, and the chemistry and physics that drive slow recharge times, today's electric vehicles have practical limits for many consumers. 

TUCSON FUEL CELL ADVANTAGESHyundai is introducing its Tucson Fuel Cell to alleviate the limitations of traditional battery electric vehicles. The Tucson Fuel Cell maintains the day-to-day flexibility of the gasoline-powered Tucson so that its driver is able to immediately enjoy the next generation of electric vehicles without range or recharge-time compromises to their lifestyle. 

The Tucson Fuel Cell represents the next generation of electric vehicles – those that create their own electricity, on-board, from hydrogen. According to UCI's Advanced Power and Energy Program's 2013 study, the hydrogen fuel cell provides lower total well-to-wheel emissions than a battery electric vehicle. For the Tucson Fuel Cell driver, this social benefit is achieved with greater utility, versatility and without compromises. Consider:
  • Driving range up to 300 miles
  • Capable of full refueling in under 10 minutes, similar to gasoline
  • Minimal reduction in daily utility compared with its gasoline counterpart
  • Instantaneous electric motor torque (221 lb-ft)
  • Minimal cold-weather effects compared with battery electric vehicles
  • Superb daily reliability and long-term durability
    • No moving parts within the power-generating fuel cell stack
    • More than two million durability test miles on Hyundai's fuel cell fleet since 2000
  • Extensive crash, fire and leak testing successfully completed
  • Quieter EV operation
  • Zero greenhouse-gas emissions, emits only water vapor
The Tucson Fuel Cell begins mass production for the U.S. market in February 2014 at the Ulsan, Korea assembly plant that also manufactures the Tucson gasoline-powered CUV. Manufacturing the Tucson Fuel Cell at the same plant allows Hyundai to leverage both the high quality and cost-efficiency of its popular gasoline-powered Tucson platform.

HYDROGEN RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONSThe benefits of hydrogen are well known -- required supplies for the U.S. market can be produced domestically and its supply is virtually unlimited. It can be produced by varied means – including renewable sources such as biogas. In fact, Hyundai's Fuel Cell prototypes have relied on hydrogen generated at the Orange County Sanitation District near its Fountain Valley headquarters, where methane from sewage is turned into hydrogen. Hydrogen can even be sourced directly from water, using electrolysis to split hydrogen molecules with electricity from renewable sources such as wind and solar. 

Further supporting hydrogen infrastructure development, California approved a plan in October 2013 to develop up to 100 hydrogen refueling stations in the state over the next several years. This recent California initiative dovetails with increased government support of hydrogen infrastructure development at the federal level, such as H2USA.

HYDROGEN: LOWEST WELL-TO-WHEEL EMISSIONSAccording to 2013 studies on well-to-wheel greenhouse-gas emissions (GHG) by the Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California, Irvine, hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles have the lowest overall emission levels of all alternative fuel entries. Well-to-wheel emissions for hydrogen vehicles sourced from natural gas are lower than battery electric vehicles, and less than half of equivalent gasoline vehicle emissions. Even more impressive, hydrogen emissions sourced from biogas are a tiny fraction of equivalent gasoline vehicle emissions, yielding an extremely high factor of long-range emissions sustainability. 

FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGY: HOW IT WORKSHyundai's fuel cell effectively replaces the battery pack used in an electric vehicle by generating electricity from hydrogen through an electrochemical process that does not involve hydrogen combustion, with no moving parts within the fuel cell stack.

The fuel cell electrochemical process is as follows:
  • Hydrogen enters the anode, air (oxygen) enters the cathode
  • Catalyst splits the hydrogen electrons and protons
  • Electrolyte conducts the positively-charged ions while blocking the electrons
  • Electrons are used to create an external circuit, generating electricity
  • Catalyst combines the hydrogen ions and electrons with oxygen to create water and heat energy
  • A single fuel cell produces approximately one volt; fuel cells are "stacked" to meet voltage requirements
We'll keep you updated on Fuel Cell Vehicles coming to Chicago and AutoNation Hyundai O'Hare, so keep up to date on our Facebook.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Accent and Santa Fe Sport Win ALG's Residual Value Awards

Hyundai’s commitment to improving residual value paid big dividends today when ALG, a subsidiary of TrueCar, Inc., released the winners of their 14th annual Residual Value Awards. For the second year in a row, the Santa Fe Sport took top place in the midsize utility vehicle segment and the Accent placed best in the subcompact category.

“Hyundai has made great strides in residual values in recent years,” said Eric Lyman, vice president of Editorial, ALG. “The Accent and Santa Fe Sport are great examples of how the brand’s strong emphasis on feature content and value for the money helps avoid the use of purchase incentives, bolstering resale values and keeping owners happy when it comes time to sell their vehicles.”
ALG’s Residual Value Awards honor the vehicles in each segment that are predicted to retain the highest residual value percentage of their original MSRP after a conventional three-year ownership period. This year’s winners were chosen after consideration of segment competition, historical vehicle performance and industry trends.

“Hyundai is committed to becoming an industry leader in the areas of reliability, safety, design and cost of ownership, the primary components of value,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Receiving these awards from ALG acknowledges this promise to customer satisfaction, and speaks to Hyundai’s incredible value for money.”

These two ALG Residual Value awards join five others that Hyundai has received over the past three years. Santa Fe Sport, Azera and Elantra all received Residual Value honors last year. Elantra was also recognized by ALG for the 2011 and 2012 model years.

Now in its third-generation, the Santa Fe Sport is one of Hyundai’s most award-winning models. Built for today’s family, the vehicle showcases Hyundai’s cutting-edge capabilities through its bold design, impressive fuel economy, class-leading safety features and standard amenities. The Accent is Hyundai’s award-winning subcompact car, which continues to defy convention by offering extraordinary value and class-above features to subcompact car shoppers.

Come test drive one at AutoNation Hyundai O'Hare and be sure to check us out on Facebook for further news and updates!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

2014 Genesis Offers Assurance Connected Care Telematics Services With Exterior And Interior Enhancements

Hyundai’s award-winning Genesis sedan continues building upon its segment leadership position with the arrival of the 2014 model. Part of this segment leadership is the highest initial quality in the midsize premium car segment, awarded by the 2013 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS).

Leveraging the capabilities of the Blue Link telematics platform added for 2013, Hyundai’s Assurance Connected Care telematics services are standard for three years on all 2014 Genesis sedans equipped with Blue Link. This innovative ownership program provides Hyundai owners with proactive safety and car care services via Hyundai Blue Link, including Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle Car Care maintenance scheduling.

2014 Genesis Highlights
  • Hyundai Assurance Connected Care telematics services standard for three years via the available Hyundai Blue Link telematics platform
  • Safety and Car Care features standard on all models equipped with Blue Link
    • Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance
    • Enhanced Roadside Assistance
    • Car Care: Monthly Vehicle Health Report, Maintenance Alert, Automatic Diagnostics Trouble Code Notification, Recall Advisor and in-vehicle Car Care maintenance scheduling
  • Standard 18-inch alloy wheels for Genesis 3.8 model
  • Heated steering wheel added exclusively to 5.0 R-Spec model
  • More efficient electro-hydraulic power steering with enhanced feel (3.8 model)
  • New Santiago Silver exterior color replaces Platinum Metallic
Genesis offers an optional eight-inch Driver Information System (DIS) display with navigation and an enhanced multi-media controller. This display features a simple user interface, integrating the same rotating dial with a new joystick function, enhanced voice recognition commands and navigation screens. Dedicated navigation keys also allow optimal control over the operating system. The system uses a 64GB solid-state drive, which allows music, image and video storage.

A simple pop-up message appears to help pair a phone and the voice recognition software understands street addresses and cities all in one sentence. The route screen displays speed limits, details the next three maneuvers, shows real highway signage and has junction views with lane guidance. Lane guidance outlines the lane or lanes the driver needs to stay in when a highway splits. Junction view uses street and actual road sign images to match what the driver will see when arriving at the next maneuver.

HYUNDAI ASSURANCE CONNECTED CARE POWERED BY BLUE LINK®Hyundai’s telematics services program, Assurance Connected Care, is standard for three years on all 2014 Genesis sedans equipped with Blue Link. This innovative ownership program provides Hyundai owners with proactive safety and car care services via the Hyundai Blue Link telematics system. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle Car Care maintenance scheduling.

Hyundai also recently introduced an all-new mobile application for the Blue Link telematics platform. This mobile app allows subscribers to remotely access various optional Blue Link features and services through compatible mobile devices. Completely redesigned, the app has been significantly enhanced from the previous version and boasts a new user experience, faster navigation and innovative new features. Google Android and Apple iOS users can download the app today from Google Play or Apple iTunes, respectively. A BlackBerry version is also available.

Blue Link is an innovative telematics solution that brings seamless connectivity for safety, service and infotainment capabilities and is offered in three packages: Assurance, Essentials and Guidance.

BLUE LINK® PACKAGES
Blue Link Assurance package:
Safety:
  • Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance – Provides assistance when an accident occurs and an airbag is deployed. In this event, an ACN signal, containing customer and location information, will automatically be transmitted to the response center. Upon receipt of the signal, a response specialist will attempt to establish voice communications with the vehicle occupants and forward any pertinent information to emergency services.
  • SOS Emergency Assistance - Customers request emergency assistance by pressing the dedicated SOS button in the vehicle. This action transmits vehicle information and location to specially-trained response specialists, who assist in coordinating the dispatch of appropriate emergency assistance to the customer. The response specialist will remain on the line with the customer until advised assistance has arrived.
  • Enhanced Roadside Assistance - Enables customers to utilize their Hyundai Assurance 24/7 Roadside Assistance via a single in-vehicle button-press. With Blue Link, vehicle information (including location) is automatically transmitted to a response center, enabling the specialist to dispatch assistance more quickly and efficiently for vehicle assistance and retrieval.
Car Care:
  • Maintenance Alert - Notifies customers in the vehicle as well as via website, email or SMS message that an upcoming service is due leading up to the service date.
  • Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification - Provides explanation and repair assistance using vehicle data and off-board diagnosis capabilities to better inform the customer of vehicle diagnostic alerts. A combination of in-vehicle display alerts and guided voice messages provides customers with additional instructions (information is also sent to the customer's preferred dealer to assist with the diagnostic process).
  • Recall Advisor - Provides all pertinent recall information should a recall be initiated.
  • Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Web Vehicle Diagnostics - Provides a report of vehicle diagnostics and other important information in a monthly email report and web page update, starting 30 days after registering with the Blue Link service.
  • Service Link - Connects to a Blue Link agent to schedule a service appointment. For non-maintenance appointments, a recording of the request will be sent to the preferred dealer in advance of the service appointment to help them prepare for the service visit.
Blue Link Essentials package:
Remote Access:
  • Remote Door Lock/Unlock - Enables locking or unlocking vehicle doors via smartphone application, owner's website, or a toll-free number.
  • Remote Horn and Lights - Enables activating the horn and/or lights via smartphone application, owner's website, or a toll-free number.
  • Remote Vehicle Start - Enables customers to start the vehicle via smartphone application, owner’s website, or a toll-free number for vehicles equipped with push-button start and either automatic or dual-clutch transmissions.
  • Car Finder - (Exclusively available via mobile app). Allows you to find your vehicle on a map if you are within a 1-mile radius of your vehicle and to save your vehicle’s location for future reference.
Vehicle Safeguard:
  • Stolen Vehicle Recovery - In the event a customer's vehicle is reported stolen (and a stolen vehicle report has been filed with the appropriate police department), the response center can provide assistance to the police in an attempt to recover the vehicle.
  • Stolen Vehicle Slowdown - Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to gradually reduce the engine power of the vehicle, thus slowing it down to safe levels. A warning will be transmitted to the driver prior to the slowdown procedure.
  • Vehicle Immobilization - Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to send a signal to the vehicle which immobilizes the engine management system, thus preventing startup. This capability is only valid when the ignition is off, but the command can be saved by the Engine Control Unit for later immobilization if the vehicle is on or in motion at the time of signal transmission.
  • Alarm Notification - Notifies customers when and where the vehicle alert is activated via a text message, email or an automated phone call.
  • Panic Notification - Notifies customers when the panic button on their vehicle key fob has been activated, signifying when a family member or other vehicle occupant may be in danger. Notifications are configured online and transmitted via email or phone call.
  • Valet Alert - Enables alert via email, text message or automated phone message when the customer’s vehicle moves beyond a prescribed distance threshold after leaving the vehicle with the valet.
  • Geo-Fence - Enables monitoring vehicle movement in and out of pre-defined regions configured on the owner’s website. When the vehicle enters or leaves a designated region, the customer is notified by email, text message or automated phone message.
  • Speed Alert - Notifies the customer via email, text message or automated phone message when their vehicle exceeds the specified speed threshold established on the owner's website. This provides high value for parents of teen drivers and small fleet customers.
  • Curfew Alert - Notifies owners if the vehicle is being used outside a pre-determined time interval. Alerts are configured online and sent via email, text message and/or automated phone message.
Blue Link Guidance package:
  • TBT (Turn-by-turn) Navigation Service – Provides turn-by-turn navigation guidance for downloaded Points of Interest. Both visual and audio guidance is provided for vehicles without factory navigation.
  • POI Search by advanced voice recognition system and by Web and download - Enables Point-of-Interest in-vehicle searches using an automated voice system. Results can be downloaded to the vehicle navigation system. Live operators can provide additional support, if needed. POI search by Web and mobile app enables sending destinations to vehicle for automatic download after starting the vehicle.
  • Daily Route Guidance with Traffic Condition - Enables customers to pre-define several routes to a common destination and receive regularly-scheduled traffic alerts for traffic delays along those routes. Results include flow and incident data, along with "Fastest Route" recommendation if applicable.
  • Traffic - Provides traffic information surrounding the customer's vehicle and in the nearby area, based on preferences established using the owner’s website.
  • Gas Station Locations and Gas Prices - Locates the nearest gas stations by price and provides brand and regular unleaded fuel price. Results are played back via automated voice and can be downloaded to the vehicle’s navigation system.
  • Eco-Coach - Monitors the customer's driving performance habits (MPG and CO2 emissions) on a continual and historical basis. Results and environmentally responsible driving recommendations are provided on the owner’s website.
  • Restaurant Ratings - Provides restaurant ratings for local restaurants with address download for turn-by-turn navigation or onboard navigation.
  • Weather - Provides weather forecasts for the immediate area or for customer-defined locations within the owner’s website.
More details regarding Hyundai Blue Link are available at www.HyundaiBlueLink.com.

THE MOST POWERFUL HYUNDAI V8 ENGINE EVERThe heart of the Genesis 5.0 R-Spec is the 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine producing 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb. ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm. The Tau V8 engine family has been named to the prestigious Ward’s Ten Best Engines list three times.

This engine features a high-pressure direct injection system (over 2,200 psi) that dramatically increases power and torque while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The Tau’s high 11.5:1 compression ratio increases thermal efficiency and output. The Tau also has a rigid bed plate for improved block rigidity and lower NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), as well as camshaft carriers and a roller timing chain to improve valvetrain stability
5.0-liter Direct Injection Tau V8 engine
Even more, this V8 offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and low-friction coatings on piston skirts, rings and tappets. Even with this impressive power, fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

The Tau 5.0-liter V8 is mated to an in-house-developed eight-speed automatic transmission. This Hyundai-developed transmission offers enhanced acceleration, shifting smoothness, and transmission efficiency. All eight-speed transmissions will include SHIFTRONIC manual shift capability.

Hyundai-developed eight-speed automatic transmission
In keeping with Hyundai engineering philosophy, the R-Spec also includes more aggressive chassis tuning, matching its corresponding powertrain enhancements for optimal dynamic balance. For enhanced body roll control, rear stabilizer bars are hollow in design and diameter is 19 mm. The R-Spec offers a unique sport design 19-inch alloy wheel with premium machined finish. The R-Spec steering calibration has been matched to this unique wheel combination for optimized performance and driving refinement expectations in this segment. To complete the performance package, front brake rotors are an impressive 13.6 inches in diameter.

The R-Spec offers unique headlights with dark chrome inserts for a more distinctive front appearance. Further R-Spec designators can be found around the car’s interior and exterior. An R-Spec badge on the rear lip and black R-Spec embroidered floor mats remind the driver of the performance waiting for them when they get behind the wheel, while the R-Spec steering wheel is now heated for the 2014 model. The Genesis R-Spec is only offered in sport-oriented exterior colors, including: Casablanca White, Caspian Black, Parisian Gray, and Santiago Silver, each with Black leather interior.
DIRECT-INJECTION LAMBDA 3.8-LITER ENGINEIn keeping with its 5.0-liter V8 sibling, the Genesis 3.8-liter Lambda engine also has direct-injection technology and produces 333 horsepower and 291 lb.-ft. of torque. It also has a high compression ratio of 11.5:1 for greater thermal efficiency. This direct-injected Lambda V6 produces a higher specific output (87.6 hp/liter) than its normally-aspirated premium luxury competitors.

Genesis 3.8-liter GDI Competitive SetGENESIS
3.8-liter DI V6
Lexus GS350
3.5-liter V6
M-B E350
3.5-liter V6
Normally-aspirated V6 Specific Output (hp/liter)87.687.486.3

The 3.8-liter engine also has Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), variable induction, an all-aluminum block and heads, steel timing chain and iridium-tipped spark plugs. Besides the generous horsepower and torque gains, direct injection technology produces a significant reduction in emissions. Further, a variable vane oil pump fitted to precisely match oil pressure with engine lubrication requirements for increased efficiency at all engine speeds. In addition, all 3.8 models receive a new, more efficient electro-hydraulic power steering system, replacing the former hydraulic system, with enhanced steering feel and less parasitic drag on the entire powertrain. As a result, 3.8-liter direct-injection fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway.
3.8-liter Direct Injection Lambda V6 engine
All 3.8-liter engines are coupled to the same eight-speed automatic transmission as the 5.0 R-Spec. These transmissions perfectly compliment the technology found in these engines, delivering improved efficiency and performance across the Genesis range.
EXTERIOR DESIGNFor 2014, the Genesis 3.8 receives a standard 18-inch alloy wheel, replacing the former standard 17-inch alloy wheel for a more premium appearance. From the front view, Genesis has an aggressive front fascia with large intake openings and LED lighting accents. In addition, the mirrors incorporate power-folding and puddle lamp functions, while the side window trim has a decidedly sporty brushed aluminum finish. From the rear view, one notices the dual asymmetrical exhaust tips cleanly integrated into the bumper fascia.

SAFETY TECHNOLOGIESMaintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents and maximize the safety of its occupants in the event of a collision. Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.

Daytime running lights come standard on the 2014 Genesis. Further, Genesis offers a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), available on the 3.8 Technology package and the 5.0 R-Spec. Whenever the system is activated, a warning chime and dial-integrated warning light alert drivers of their lane departure, allowing them to reposition the car smoothly into the correct position.

Genesis' total of eight airbags includes advanced dual front airbags, front and outboard rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

Genesis also offers a parking assistance system with eight ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors, along with the rear backup camera, help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.

Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). Genesis 3.8 models have large 13.0-inch front rotors with four-piston fixed calipers, while the 5.0 R-Spec has larger 13.6-inch front rotors.

Keep an eye on O'Hare Hyundai as the 2014s roll in, and stay tuned on our Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Hyundai Motor Previews Soon-To-Be Launched All-New Genesis Premium Sedan

Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea’s largest automaker, held an ‘All-New Genesis Media Preview’ for the Korean media at Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Center and officially unveiled the first image renderings of the car. The purpose of the pre-launch media event was to promote its domestic launch scheduled later this year. Staging its world-premiere in Korea, the all-new Genesis will debut in major markets next year.

“Launched in 2008, Hyundai’s first premium rear-wheel drive sedan Genesis surprised the industry with its outstanding product competitiveness,” said Moon Sik Kwon, head of Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Center, in his welcome remarks. “The evolved all-new Genesis is the product of Hyundai’s best resources and capabilities and we strongly believe it will be a game-changer in the market.”
With a total investment of 500 billion KRW, the project began with the aim of developing a world-class premium rear-wheel drive sedan, and it took four years to develop the current model.

Its main strengths are: Premium and distinctive design, best-in-class chassis system, premium European brands’ level of driving and R&H performance, cutting-edge safety and convenience features.

With emotional touches included in every detail, conveying Hyundai’s brand identity ‘Modern Premium,’ the all-new Genesis has secured best-in-class basic product competitiveness through numerous tests carried out in various locations worldwide, including the famed Nürburgring in Germany.

DESIGN

Since its introduction in 2009, Hyundai’s unique design philosophy ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ has evolved to the next level and the all-new Genesis is the first model to adopt Fluidic Sculpture 2.0.

While maintaining its original essence, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 is defined by core elements: Simple and harmonious design with refined fluidic design elements, modern Hyundai look with a singular hexagonal grille, easy-to-understand and pleasant design and rich visuotactile color, material and finishing of the car.

Designed based on this new philosophy, the all-new Genesis boasts a premium sports sedan look with refined, ‘in-motion’ design aesthetics. A single-frame premium hexagonal grille makes a bold front statement, while fluidic and voluminous surfacing complete the side lines. Meanwhile, the high-tech, sculptural surface emphasizes the rear design.

Its interior design aligns with the premium exterior, adopting consistent design details that fully reflect careful consideration of ergonomics and intuitive operation. Tailored design specifications for all materials and master craftsmanship-level finish strengthen its premium image.

The all-new Genesis also focuses on Human Machine Interface (HMI), which lets drivers intuitively recognize vehicle functions, allowing for more convenient and effective use of those functions.
Switches are categorized depending on their function, facilitating easier control. Symbols are standardized for intuitive recognition, and the feel of the grip and control have been improved as well.

Starting with the all-new Genesis, future models will be designed based on Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 and its HMI principles.

SAFETY

The all-new Genesis significantly improved its safety in crash tests due to improved body structure and rigidity.

Its torsional and bending stiffness have been increased by applying more ultra-high-strength steel, hot-stamping and double-section structure on the front, partitioned engine room design as well as improved rear and center floor structures.

Passenger safety has been improved by the application of advanced seatbelt functions such as Emergency Fastening Device system (EFD), which tightly fastens passengers in crashes, and Pre-Safe seatbelt, which warns of danger in advance by tightening the seatbelt.

PERFORMANCE

With improved suspension and application of various advanced technologies, the all-new Genesis offers top-class driving and ride & handling performances. Greatly improved lateral stiffness of the front and rear suspensions and excellent weight balance contribute to the making of a stable chassis. Meanwhile, application of electronic control suspension such as Advanced Traction Cornering Control (ATCC) enables greater stability in corners.

Furthermore, Rack-mounted Motor Driven Electric Power Steering (R-MDPS) was first applied to the model with a variable gear ratio, which provides high-speed stability and direct response at low and medium speeds.

Hyundai’s ‘HTRAC’ all-wheel drive system will also be available for the first time on the all-new Genesis. The advanced HTRAC system electronically controls torque split between the front and rear axles depending on road and driving conditions, offering greater stability on slippery roads and in corners. It also allows drivers to select driving modes for a sophisticated and tailored driving experience.

Stay tuned at O'Hare Hyundai and be sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Friday, November 1, 2013

Zombifying New York

Rob Lescaille recently updated the Hyundai Like Sunday blog with a write up of the Hyundai and Walking Dead events at the New York Comic Con. It's really interesting and worth a look.



Check out our inventory at O'Hare Hyundai and be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for further news and updates.