The i-flow concept is Hyundai's glimpse of what its next family car will look like. Aerodynamics play a large part in the i-flow's design brief, as well as making use of high-tech materials in its construction.
Why's it here?
Hyundai has not fared well in the Mondeo-sized family car class in Europe, so the i-flow is here to stem that. It's been designed in Europe and uses lightweight construction materials and techniques to help with economy and emissions. It's also Hyundai showing off the next stage in its 'fluidic' design philosophy that we saw for the first time with the ix35.
Show stopper or floor filler?
A show stopper, but not just for the looks of this concept. The i-flow incorporates solar cells into the bodywork to help charge the batteries of the hybrid power plant. A 1.7-litre engine is under the bonnet and uses twin turbos. It drives through a six-speed twin-clutch gearbox and the hybrid power plant produces just 85g/km, though Hyundai won't reveal any performance figures. However, expect to see a production version of the i-flow on sale in 2011.
Check out the press conference from the show below: