Hyundai announces competition with hybrid leader Toyota… unveils next-generation technology that boosts efficiency by 45%.
Hyundai Motor Group has unveiled its next-generation hybrid system, which improves power efficiency by up to 45%. As the global automotive market faces a prolonged slowdown due to the electric vehicle "demand stagnation" (temporary demand dip), Hyundai is turning its focus to hybrids to strengthen its competitiveness. With this next-generation hybrid technology, Hyundai aims to close the technological gap with global automakers, including Toyota, and secure its position in the global market. At the "Next-Generation Hybrid System Tech Day" held at Crest72 in Jung-gu, Seoul, Hyundai introduced a next-generation hybrid system that improves fuel efficiency by up to 45%. This technology, starting with the large SUV model 'Palisade', will be expanded and applied to other vehicle models. The next-generation hybrid system revealed by Hyundai is a 2.5-generation hybrid system that enhances efficiency and driving performance, with a structure that allows driving on electric power alone. The new transmission, which contains two motors, can be combined with various engine lineups to provide optimized performance and fuel efficiency based on vehicle class and characteristics. By increasing the number of motors from one (P2) to two (P1 and P2), the system improves fuel efficiency and output. The P1 motor transfers power to the engine and distributes driving force, effectively contributing to fuel efficiency improvements. Han Dong-hee, Vice President of Hyundai’s Electrification Development, stated, "We have developed a new hybrid system by combining years of accumulated hybrid system development experience with world-class electrification technology applied to electric vehicles." He added, "We aim to offer customers an environmentally friendly vehicle with excellent performance." Hyundai will apply the next-generation hybrid system to the North American Palisade Hybrid (HEV) model, which is scheduled for release in the second half of this year. Following this, the system will be applied to other Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis models. The Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV boasts a best-in-class fuel efficiency of 14.1 km/L, a maximum output of 334 horsepower, and a peak torque of 46.9 kgf·m. This represents a 45% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the same-class 2.5 turbo gasoline model. Its maximum output and peak torque have increased by 19% and 9%, respectively, while reducing emissions by 34%. Hyundai Motor Group plans to implement the next-generation hybrid system transmission across a variety of engines, covering system outputs from the low 100-horsepower range to the mid-300-horsepower range. Based on this, the company intends to offer a range of hybrid vehicles from small to large and luxury models. The next-generation hybrid system will expand from the current three models to five by 2030. Hyundai plans to introduce a 2.5 turbo hybrid for rear-wheel drive in 2026 and sequentially equip it in key Genesis models, thus extending the hybrid lineup to its luxury brand. In response to the electric vehicle market stagnation, Hyundai Motor Group has shifted its strategy, adopting a two-track approach of increasing both electric and hybrid vehicle production. Hyundai and Kia have decided to produce hybrid cars at the 'Hyundai Motor Group MetaPlant America' (HMGMA) electric vehicle plant in Georgia, U.S., and have started investing in a new line. Initially, HMGMA was set to produce only electric vehicles, but the strategy was changed to include hybrid production in line with market changes. A Hyundai Motor Group official stated, "For the new hybrid vehicles to be launched, we plan to apply the next-generation hybrid powertrain and various electrification-specific technologies in optimal combinations based on vehicle class, vehicle characteristics, and regional market conditions." Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group is set to compete with hybrid leader Toyota, using its next-generation hybrid technology. Toyota sold 4.14 million hybrid cars globally last year, nearly five times the hybrid car sales of Hyundai and Kia (863,780 units). ChatGPT를 사용하여 번역한 기사입니다.
