Koreans unveil new tech

Hyundai has unveiled a range of new technology at Paris Motor Show, which it says will take it “to the end of the decade”. New engine technology will be introduced in the i20 small car due to go on sale in Europe early next year. The one and 1.4-litre engines are part of a new generation to meet the growing demand for small capacity, turbocharged engines to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions without compromising on driving pleasure, the marque says. The one litre T-GDI engine is able to produce up to 120hp and 172Nm of torque. Showcased in the i30 CNG concept car, the Kappa 1.4-litre provides 117hp and 206Nm of torque from 1,500-3,500 rpm. The CO2 emissions of the i30 CNG concept are just 87g/km. Another premiere in Paris is the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission showcased in the i30 CNG. The 7DCT provides an improvement in fuel consumption compared to a conventional six-gear automated transmission, while acceleration performance is improved. Hyundai has also showcased a 48-volt hybrid version of the i40. It reduces CO2 emissions and consumption significantly over the standard production model, but only costs one-quarter of a full-hybrid solution to build. Based on a 1.7-litre diesel powertrain, the show car is fitted with a 48-volt lead-carbon battery boosting power by 15 per cent and reducing CO2 output by up to 20 per cent. Alongside the new powertrains, Hyundai has also shown the latest development of its fuel-cell programme including the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen-powered vehicle, the ix35 Fuel Cell, which is already being used in seven countries.