Geneva 2010: Hyundai I-Flow a Future Vision for the Sonata
Hyundai unveiled its i-Flow concept vehicle, calling it a preview for a future D-Segment contender. According to Hyundai, we may see the i-Flow’s styling and technology in a 2011 production model. Would it be too much to expect it in the 2011 Euro-spec Sonata?
The seventh of a series of concepts from the Russelsheim design studio, the i-Flow extends upon Hyundai’s “fluidic sculpture” philosophy. The outside offers a futuristic look while inside, the i-Flow has an alien, Hyundai calls it “bionic”, feel.
Under the futuristic shell, the i-Flow is Hyundai’s first diesel hybrid powertrain. At the i-Flow’s heart is the U2 1.7L two-stage turbo engine combined with a lithium-ion powered motor. No horsepower or torque figures were provided, but Hyundai says the i-Flow gets 78.4 mpg.
Like the Blue Will concept unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the i-Flow recycles exhaust heat, capturing the energy and using it to power auxiliary systems.
The i-Flow also uses a thermal engine encapsulation technology which helps the engine reach optimum operating temperature quicker by retaining heat when the engine is idle. According to Hyundai, the i-Flow’s engine will stay above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) for up to 14 hours, much longer than a non-insulated engine’s time of three hours. Hyundai estimates this will cut 5% of emissions in the summer and up to 9% in the winter.
Gallery: Hyundai i-Flow concept
More by Dennis Chung
Comments
Join the conversation
Hyundai should fastrack the I-flow. It would certainly cut into the already made VW market. This has the potential to be a huge success if they deliver on their Promise of Fuel mileage ,reliability,& Style . I am not one to jump on new unproven technology Bandwagon .....But ..this one looks very tempting.....even I... would consider to be the first in line to make an early purchase .At these canadian Fuel Prices I'd be a Fool "NOT" to buy one!
I cannot believe that no-one is reacting or leaving comments on this site! ..This looks like a Great car to be.....might be because north americans are not very familiar with the Clean diesel power and all it's benefits. This has been the Commercial automtive User's best kept secret ..Commercial & Heavy Truck users have known for years, understand & reap the benefits Such AS.... more power ,better economy , longevity & Reliability.Diesel Engines can last up to close to 1million miles or more when properly used and maintained. Because they REV lower than their gasoline counterparts... they last longer.. and hence.. Use less fuel. If the New tecnology associated with the Clean diesel Proves to be as Depenable as the Diesel engines have been throughout time ,And... I can't see why Not. Buying a Clean diesel powered vehicle should be a No brainer., Especially for SUV"s, Crossover Vehicles,Light Trucks ETC: ... And..the clean Diesel Burns so clean! AND Doesn't Clack like it used to.. I believe it was approved in California. This is a HUGE forward stride for Clean Diesel Power...........Knowledge is power .....Diesel Power.....I AM IN !