By increasing motor efficiency, reducing driveline friction, focusing on aerodynamics, including stop-start ignition, employing low-rolling-resistance tires and lowering the suspension, the i-blue treatment eeks every last bit of efficiency out of the available framework.
Previous examples included i-Blue versions of the i10 minicar and special one-off concepts like the 2007 hydrogen fuel-cell crossover, and now Hyundai has taken the wraps off a new production version in the form of the i30 Blue hatchback, which is set to go on sale in Europe soon after a Geneva Motor Show debut. Both hatchback and wagon versions of the i30 Blue will be available, and customers will also be able to choose between 1.4 and 1.6L petrol engines.
The new model will feature an engine stop-start system from Germany's Bosch, which uses an advanced starter motor connected to the ECU. It is joined by low-rolling resistance tires and a few aerodynamic enhancements. The end result is a 15% reduction in fuel consumption in city driving and a 7% reduction on the highway compared with the standard i30.
Also at the Geneva event will be the new HED-6 concept vehicle, which is supposed to preview the design of the next-generation Tucson SUV.
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NoNameDenton Posted: 7/21/2008 11:01pm PDT
amac Posted: 7/22/2008 1:09am PDT
james Posted: 7/22/2008 3:47pm PDT
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