Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode concept features Theta Turbo GDI engine for L.A. Auto Show

Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode Concept

Hyundai introduces new 2.0 liter turbo-charged direct injection engine in the HED-5 i-Mode concept

By Alex Ricciuti
November 20, 2008 1:10 AM
Filed Under: Asian, Concept Car, Hyundai, Los Angeles Auto Show

First debuted in Geneva, Hyundai has brought the HED-5 i-Mode concept to the Los Angeles Auto Show with a new direct-injection engine it is labeling "state-of-the-art".

But doesn't state-of-the-art just mean what everyone else is already doing?

Direct-injection gasoline engines, even with variable valve timing, have been around for a while, just ask VW, but it's still cute to see an Asian brand championing this technology in a concept vehicle. The 2.0-liter Theta Turbo GDI does have a "capacity" for up to 286 hp, though. But one has to doubt whether that particular configuration for the Theta will ever see the streets.

In any case, this concept crossover does offer a unique spaciousness with its six-seat, mono-cab design. It makes use of lightweight materials, swiveling chairs, and has a sliding door without inner or outer guide rails, which may be difficult to picture but Hyundai claims it gives the interior a greater sense of roominess.

There is a multi-media on-board system provided LG Electronics with Internet connectivity and made for fun stuff like playing video games, movies or video-phoning.

The good news is that this car will go into production for the US market, as Hyundai has just announced. Details on timing will come later.

Source: Hyundai

Press Release (Click to expand)

HYUNDAI HED-5 "i-MODE" CONCEPT MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW WITH NEW ECO-FRIENDLY POWERTRAIN

2.0-liter, Four-cylinder Turbo Engine with Gasoline Direct Injection Approved for U.S. Market Intro in 2010

Hyundai unveiled the HED-5 "i-Mode" concept at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show today, featuring an all-new, eco-friendly powertrain making its first-ever appearance for Hyundai. The six-passenger family crossover, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, combines visionary styling with future technologies and advanced eco-dynamics.

For its North American debut, Hyundai added a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with state-of-the-art Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) that improves efficiency and reduces emissions. The HED-5 i-Mode concept and the new powerplant, called the Theta Turbo GDI, have been green lighted for the U.S. market. Variants of the engine will appear in various Hyundai models. Timing and specifications for a production version of a family crossover similar to HED-5 i-Mode are currently in development.

HED-5 "i-Mode" Concept Highlights

Six-seater monocab design
World debut of turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with Gasoline Direct Injection
High-end materials and advanced eco-dynamics
Unique Swivel Seat concept
Futuristic communications and entertainment system

"The HED-5 i-Mode concept provides a glimpse into the future of travel, incorporating innovative weight-saving technologies, a modern fuel-efficient four-cylinder direct injection turbo, and a flexible interior package," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America.

All-new Theta Turbo GDI

For the U.S. market, the HED-5 i-Mode reveals a first-ever powerplant for Hyundai, the Theta Turbo GDI. The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine uses gasoline direct injection technology. By injecting the fuel directly inside the cylinder in small, precise amounts, the performance and response of the engine improve thanks to the intake charge cooling. Both fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions improve due to the improved combustion. Combine GDI with turbo charging and the result is exceptional power output. The engine has capacity for up to 286 horsepower, greater than most six-cylinder engines on the market, while improving fuel economy by 15-20 percent. The Theta Turbo GDI includes Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) to further improve efficiency. This ultra-efficient, high-tech gasoline engine will be fitted in various Hyundai models in future model years.

HED-5 Cross-industry Collaboration Drives Packaging and Technology Advancements

Hyundai continues cross-industry cooperation to speed new technologies to market through such partners as Bayer MaterialScience AG, Keiper and LG Electronics. The cooperation with Bayer MaterialScience enabled the complex curvature and radical design of the HED-5 to be implemented sooner. The materials used are lighter and more adaptable than the metal and glass they replace. This, in combination with a light-weight body construction, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. "Self-healing," water-based finishes from Bayer add another environmentally friendly twist to the vehicle and even let minor scratches appear to "magically" disappear, saving the need for costly repair.

Through the advanced multimedia and entertainment concept developed by LG Electronics, the vehicle becomes an extension of the digital home allowing passengers to stay connected, communicate, and interact in the car and beyond. Access to the Web, video games, movies or video phones are possible through the pop-down touch-screen displays and Webcams located in the overhead console. A wireless network, cable-free keyboards, game controllers, and headphones further personalize the entertainment experience.

Hyundai's engineering partner, Keiper, supported the HED-5 i-Mode project with the exclusive world premiere of its new and unique Swivel Seat concept. The first-row passenger seat flips to face second- and third-row occupants. Additionally, the second-row bench slides rearward to increase comfort and create a social space for communication.

The i-Mode Design

An innovative mechanism enables the sliding door to be free from conventional inner and outer guide rails. When the doors are opened, the lack of a B-pillar enables a feeling of space and remarkable accessibility to the generous interior.

The Hyundai design team worked extensively with new composite materials to enable unconventional and irregular shapes. The architecture of the HED-5 i-Mode is supported by an external frame protecting the space within, like a shell. In cooperation with Bayer MaterialScience, the HED-5 i-Mode is the first vehicle to feature the new "BayVision" glazing system and Collimator headlight lenses made from Makrolon®. This innovative glazing alternative enables extended transparent areas, further reducing weight.

Through the innovative door opening mechanism, the interior of the HED-5 i-Mode reveals an inviting landscape of softly sculpted shapes and advanced technology. The first step into the vehicle reveals the elegant application of natural materials. Soft, silky leather in warm and natural brown tones provides a level of comfort normally reserved for the home. Attention is immediately drawn to the seats, which offer first-class comfort combining a modern, floating look with innovative functionality, enabling the occupants to experience the lounge atmosphere without the limitations of a conventional automotive interior layout.