Perhaps the most innovative feature on the car concerns the tailpipe. Cars expel a lot of energy in the form of exhaust heat. Hyundai has developed a thermal generator that mounts to the exhaust manifold to capture that energy, convert it to electricity and use it to power auxiliary systems in the vehicle, like the Bluetooth-enabled stereo system.
The ideas don’t stop with power generation.
The interior of the vehicle includes several high-tech innovations. The gauge cluster has been replaced by an ultra-thin Transparent Organic Light-Emitting Diode that displays in high-resolution color. The center stack is a touch-screen interface display that controls the HVAC, drive (PRNDL) selector and infotainment systems. In what Hyundai calls the focal point of the display, an “Eco-Coach” that graphically promotes fuel-saving behavior by providing constant feedback about fuel consumption and driving efficiency.
The exterior of the car also features several environmentally-sound innovations. Carbon-fiber reinforced plastics and nano-composites have been applied to side sills, moldings and fenders. Bioplastics have been used for panels and other interior and exterior parts. This includes the bike rack that is integrated into the trunk of the car.
With all these new innovations and features, one has to wonder what Hyundai will come up with next year.
