Hyundai BLUU - WILL

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Hyundai BLUE-WILL hybrid Concept
Plug-in hybrid concept uses similar technology to Chevy Volt
Hyundai blue-will
Auto Express Car Reviews
25th March 2009

When it comes to the environment, if there’s a WILL there’s a way! Hyundai is readying an advanced hybrid concept for the Seoul Motor Show, which opens on 2 April, known as the BLUE-WILL.

And it’s not just the eye-catching bodywork that’s designed to wow the Korean crowds, the plug-in petrol-electric powertrain should, in theory, provide ultra low CO2 emissions and fuel economy of well over 100mpg.

It uses a 1.6-litre direct-injection petrol engine, that’s only switched-on to top up power levels in the lithium Ion Polymer batteries when they’re running low. The wheels are driven by a 134bhp motor hooked up to the power packs stored under the rear seats.

The car’s eco-credentials are boosted even further by headlight covers made from recycled bottles, as well as interior components and an engine cover made from biodegradable plastics. Solar panels on the roof also help to improve efficiency by generating additional power for the batteries.

There are no plans to put the car into production just yet, but the technology, which mimics the systems found in the Chevrolet Volt and Vauxhall Ampera, will find its way into Hyundai production cars within the next few years.