Hyundai will show off its striking Blue-Will plug-in hybrid concept at the Seoul Motor Show next month. As well as using an advanced driveline the show car is constructed from materials chosen for their low environmental impact.
The headlamp bezels are made from recycled soft drinks bottles and other parts have been made from plant-extract-based bio-plastics rather than conventional, oil-based materials.
Power comes from a 1.6-litre petrol engine, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and 100kW electric motor. A lithium-ion polymer battery pack is fitted - integrated with the fuel tank under the rear seat to minimise intrusion into the luggage space.
To help top up the battery the concept car features a panoramic roof incorporating dye-sensitised solar cells. The cells generate power without impeding visibility.
Some technical features of the concept car will be incorporated in a production hybrid later this year. The Elantra LPI Hybrid will go on sale in Korea in July. Hyundai will release more details of the Blue-Will concept at the Soul Motor Show on 2nd April.
John Lambert - 26 Mar 2009