Hyundai Motor Group Archives

Hyundai and Kia vehicles will have cleaner air in cabins in future (w/VIDEO)

COVID-19 has impacted the world in many ways, forcing us to change the way we go about doing things in our daily lives. At the same time, it has also directed carmakers towards addressing issues that were not a high priority before. Air quality is one of them and the Hyundai Motor Group has developed new technologies to improve the quality of air in vehicles and create a more pleasant indoor environment for customers.

The Korean group has unveiled three new air-conditioning technologies – After-Blow, Multi-Air Mode, and Fine Dust Indicator. The technologies will be introduced initially on certain models sold in Korea and then included in the export models of the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands later on.

After-Blow Technology
Moisture that collect in the air-conditioning system’s evaporator enables mold to grow, especially if the weather is hot. The mold can give off an odour which is unpleasant to the occupants. To address this issue, After-Blow dries the condensate on the evaporator to suppresses mold growth.

Normally, after the engine is turned off, the condensate on the evaporator drains naturally for about 30 minutes (that’s the puddle of water you see under the car). The After-Blow system then activates for 10 minutes to dry the evaporator and any condensate leftover in the air passage. The air-conditioning system automatically allows influx of outside air during this time to prevent humidity from building up.

The technology uses an intelligent battery sensor to monitor the battery condition and stops functioning when the battery is low. This will avoid the battery going flat and causing inconvenience to the vehicle owner. It also de-activates when the air conditioning system is not in use for a certain period of time, or when the outside temperature is low.

Multi-Air Mode Technology
Multi-Air Mode uses multiple vents for air conditioning and heating to create a more pleasant indoor environment with a gentle wind. When this mode is activated, the air is dispersed to the newly added multi-air slots in the driver and passenger seats in addition to the normal air vents.

The overall wind volume remains the same, but the dispersion of wind reduces direct air contact and softens the air. This mode can be switched on and off based on the preference of the driver.

Fine Dust Indicator Technology
Dust is all around us in the air and with the Fine Dust Indicator, it is possible for the driver to get information on the dust levels inside the vehicle in real time. With the digitized information, the driver can better manage the air quality.

The indicator displays the concentration and pollution level of ultrafine particles (PM 2.5) inside the vehicle using integer numbers and colours for better visibility to the user. Blue is for 0 to 15 μg/m³, green for 16 to 35 μg/m³, orange for 36 to 75 μg/m³, and red for 76 μg/m³ or higher.

If the level of ultrafine particles exceeds 36 μg /m³ while the function is active, the air-cleaning mode will run to purify the air in the vehicle. The air-cleaning system automatically sets the air volume between 3 and 8 and switches to air-recirculation mode and activates the air conditioning system to reduce indoor humidity. If the air does not improve in air-cleaning mode, it can also serve as a reminder to the driver to replace air-conditioner filters or to clean contaminated seats and mats.

VR technology enhances vehicle development processes for Hyundai and Kia

Hyundai Motor Group chooses Canoo platform for future EV models

The Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will collaborate with Canoo, a Los Angeles-based company creating electric vehicles (EVs) for subscription only, to jointly develop an EV platform based on Canoo’s proprietary skateboard design for future Hyundai and Kia models.

As part of the collaboration, Canoo will provide engineering services to help develop a fully scalable, all-electric platform to meet both Korean carmakers’ specifications. HMG expects the platform to help facilitate its commitment to delivering cost-competitive electrified vehicles — ranging from small-sized EVs to Purpose-Built Vehicles (PBV) — that can meet diverse customer needs.

Canoo’s skateboard platform houses the most critical components of the vehicle with a strong emphasis on functional integration, meaning all components fulfill as many functions as possible. This feat of engineering reduces the skateboard size, weight and total number of parts, which ultimately provides more interior cabin space and a more cost-effective EV offering. In addition, the skateboard is a self-contained unit that can support any cabin design.

HMG envisions an adaptable all-electric platform using Canoo’s scalable skateboard architecture to allow for a simplified and standardized development process for Hyundai and Kia electrified vehicles, which is expected to help reduce cost that can be passed along to consumers. It also aims to reduce complexity of its EV assembly line, allowing for rapid response to changing market demands and customer preferences.

With this collaboration, Hyundai Motor Group doubles down on its recent commitment to invest US$87 billion (about RM360.3 billion) over the next 5 years for future growth. As part of this drive, Hyundai plans to invest US$52 billion (RM215.4 billion) in future technologies through 2025, while Kia will invest US$25 billion (RM103.5 billion) in electrification and future mobility technologies, aiming for eco-friendly vehicles to comprise 25% of its total sales by 2025.

“We were highly impressed by the speed and efficiency in which Canoo developed their innovative EV architecture, making them the perfect engineering partner for us as we transition to become a frontrunner in the future mobility industry,” said Albert Biermann, Head of Research & Development, Hyundai Motor Group. “We will collaborate with Canoo engineers to develop a cost-effective Hyundai platform concept that is autonomous ready and suitable for mass adoption.”

Hyundai Kia concept EV — *Future Hyundai and Kia electrified models will sit on the Canoo skateboard.*

Canoo unveiled its first electric vehicle for subscription only in September 2019, just 19 months after the company’s founding in December 2017. The company’s proprietary skateboard architecture, which directly houses the batteries and electric drivetrain, has enabled Canoo to reimagine EV design in a way that challenges traditional automotive shape and functionality.

The company recently opened the waitlist for its first vehicle. This is a major milestone in its young history and the culmination of the efforts of 300+ experts working to deliver a proof of concept of Canoo’s backbone architectural systems. Canoo’s first vehicle, to be launched in 2021, will be designed for a world in which transportation is becoming increasingly electric, shared and autonomous.

Canoo takes a different approach to EV engineering and marketing

Future Hyundai/Kia models to get additional airbag in the middle

Since the early 1980s when airbags started to be installed in cabin, millions of people have benefitted from the extra protection and experienced reduced injuries during accidents. The contribution of airbags to saving lives cannot be understated and as new technology has been developed, the effectiveness of airbags has increased.

Preventing head injuries
Now the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has developed a new centre side airbag, further enhancing the safety of its vehicles’ occupants. This airbag works to separate the space between driver and front passenger by expanding into the space between the front seats to prevent head injuries of the two occupants.

If there is no one in the front passenger seat, the airbag will protect the driver from the effects of a side collision coming from the opposite side. The centre side airbag is installed inside the driver’s seat and will deploy once the impact is sensed.

The new centre side airbag is expected to diminish head injuries caused by passengers colliding with each other by 80%. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association’s statistics, the rate of secondary damage caused by these kinds of collisions or from hitting interior materials is about 45%.

Lighter and simpler
The airbag has an internal component called a tether which allows the airbag to maintain its form and withstand the passenger’s weight. HMG has developed a new technology to simplify the design and reduce the weight of components to produce an airbag which is about 500 gms lighter than the competing products. Thanks to the smaller size of the airbag, the design teams will have more flexibility in the type of seat design they envision for future products.

HMG has applied newly patented technology to maintain reliability but reduce the weight and size of the airbag which will be offered in selected models to be introduced in future. Upcoming Euro NCAP assessments are expected to include side impact into its consideration beginning from 2020 and HMG’s airbag is expected to work favourably in such evaluation.

Hyundai Motor Group develops lightweight wearable robot to help workers

The increased automation, particularly the use of robots, is feared to reduce the number of humans needed to do work in factories. It has a lot of implications and companies are trying to find a balance in their workforce. However, humans are still needed for some types of assembly work, especially where it involves variations. Robots work more efficiently when the work is constantly similar (eg welding bodies) so customisation of specifications is harder to programme.

Therefore there will still be a need for humans in the factory and the dream of the former General Motors CEO, Roger Smith, of a factory with no humans at all, building cars non-stop all day long will likely remain just a dream for some time to come.

Long hours in difficult environments
Though the work humans will do will be suited for them physically and less dangerous, they may still spend long hours working in difficult environments. To reduce fatigue, the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has developed a Vest EXoskeleton (VEX) which is a wearable robot to assist them.

The VEX helps by imitating the movement of human joints to boost load support and mobility. The wearable vest the polycentric axis – combining multiple pivot points with multi-link muscular assistance – to function, eliminating the need for a battery.

Attached like a backpack
At 2.5 kgs, it weighs 22 – 42% less than competing products and is worn like a backpack. The worker places his or her arms through the shoulder straps of the vest, then fastens the chest and waist buckles. The back section can adjust in length by up to 18 cm to fit a variety of body sizes, while the degree of force assistance can be adjusted over 6 levels – up to as much as 5.5 kgf.

“VEX gives workers greater load support, mobility, and adaptability when operating in overhead environments,” said DongJin Hyun, Head of Robotics team of HMG. “Workers will also appreciate how light VEX is to wear and work with.”

The newly-developed product is targeted at production-line workers whose job is primarily overhead, such as those working on the underside of vehicles – fitting brake tubes, attaching exhaust systems, etc.

Already used in 2 US plants
The development of the VEX included a pilot program in two HMG plants in the USA. The trial was widely successful in assisting workers and boosting productivity and both plants have incorporated VEX systems in their production lines.

Hyundai US factory — *One of the two Hyundai Motor Group factories in the USA where the VEX is already assisting workers.*

The Group is considering introducing the VEX in plants around the world. It is expected to go into commercial production in December and is projected to cost as much as 30% lower than existing products which usually costs around US$5,000 (about RM21,000).

Growing demand for wearable robots
According to the International Federation of Robotics, the wearable robotics industry is growing 14% annually, a rate which is accelerating. By 2021, approximately 630,000 commercial robots will be sold worldwide, with the greatest demand coming from the automotive sector. Recognizing the market trend, HMG is making active investments and strengthening its presence within the growing robotics industry by securing relevant technologies.

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Hyundai Motor Group begins selling first model with solar roof charging system

The Hyundai Motor Group has launched its first car with a solar roof charging system. It is one of three types of solar roof charging systems the carmaker is developing. This technology will provide vehicles with additional electrical power that can increase fuel efficiency and driving range in hybrids.

The system debuts on the New Sonata Hybrid which is the first mid-sized hybrid sedan in the Korean market with fuel consumption officially rated at over 20 kms/litre. To date, other models in the same segment have achieved 18 kms/litre at best.

The new model also equipped with the world’s first Active Shift Control technology as well as a Smartstream G2.0 GDi HEV engine and 6-speed hybrid transmission. Hyundai’s new model also supports a ‘Digital Key’ function via a dedicated smartphone app.

“Solar roof technology is a good example of how Hyundai Motor is moving towards becoming a clean mobility provider. The technology allows our customers to actively tackle emissions issue,” said Heui Won Yang, Senior Vice-President and head of Body Tech Unit of Hyundai Motor Group.

Adding an extra 1,300 kms annually
The solar roof charging system includes a structure of silicon solar panels that are mounted on the car’s roof. Being able to charge even while driving, the solar roof system can charge 30% to 60% of the battery per day. With 6 hours of daily charging (which can take place while the vehicle is parked), it is expected to increase vehicle travel distance by an extra 1,300 kms annually.

The system is composed of a solar panel and a controller. Electricity is produced when solar energy activates the solar panel’s surface, which converts this energy by using photons of light from the sun. This creates the electron-hole pairs in silicon cells, which generate solar electricity. The electricity from this process is converted to the standard voltage by the controller, then stored in the battery.

Hyundai Motor took not only efficiency but also design into account while developing the charging system. While the solar roof system currently plays a supporting role, it opens up perspectives for vehicles that no longer need fossil fuel to operate, ie pure electric vehicles.

The New Sonata Hybrid has just gone on sale in Korea and will also be available in North America. However, the company says it has no plans to offer it in other markets in the immediate future.

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Quicker shift times in future Kia/Hyundai hybrids with Active Shift Control

The beginning of the computer age in the 1980s saw the rapid development of electronic systems for management of many different functions in cars. This led to significant leaps in performance and efficiency as computers could calculate at thousands of times a second, making adjustments to match operating conditions precisely.

One area where such lightning-fast management was valuable was in the automatic transmission. The transmission control unit (TCU) worked with the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to coordinate gearshifts and as technology advanced, to eliminate the parasitic power losses.

Optimizing transmission efficiency
Now the Hyundai Motor Group has developed the world’s first Active Shift Control (ASC) transmission technology for future Kia and Hyundai hybrid models. The innovation optimizes transmission efficiency by monitoring the rotational speed of transmission with a sensor installed inside the electric motor at 500 times per second to quickly synchronize the rotational speed with that of engine.

ASC applies new control logic software to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU), which then controls the electric motor to align the rotational speeds of the engine and transmission to reduce gearshift time by 30%. With the synchronization, shift time is reduced from 500 ms to 350 ms, increasing smoothness.

“The development of world’s first ASC technology is a remarkable innovation which incorporates precise motor control to automatic transmission,” said KyoungJoon Chang, Vice-President and Head of Powertrain Control System Group of Hyundai Motor Group, “It will not only save fuel but also provide a more fun driving experience for our customers.”

*Development of the ASC technology is completed and is ready to be used in future Kia and Hyundai hybrid models.*

Independently developed control logic software
Conventional hybrid vehicles do not have torque converters to further improve fuel economy as torque converters lose energy during the process of transmission. Although fuel efficient, such a system also requires longer shift times to ensure smoother gear changes.

ASC technology allows the hybrid’s electric motor to also take control of gearshifts by applying new software logic to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) to mitigate issues with slower shift time. This not only improves a hybrid vehicle’s acceleration performance and fuel economy, but also durability of the transmission by minimising friction during gearshift.

VVT-i, i-VTEC, CVVT… and now CVVD from the Hyundai Motor Group [w/VIDEO]

VVT (Variable Valve Timing), VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control), VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), i-VTEC (intelligent VTEC), Dual VVT-i, CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) are all familiar valvetrain systems in today’s cars. Now the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) adds a new one – CVVD or Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD).

The world first technology, first mentioned at HMG’s International Powertrain Conference in October 2017, is being revealed at the Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang in Korea this morning. The Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi will be the first engine to have the technology and it will be used in future Hyundai and Kia models.

CVVD optimizes both engine performance and fuel efficiency while also being eco-friendly. The valve control technology regulates the duration of valve opening and closing according to driving conditions, achieving a claimed 4% boost in performance and a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency, while cutting toxic emissions by 12%.

How CVVD works
Typical variable valve control technologies manage the timing of the valve’s opening and closing (as in CVVT) or control the volume of air admitted by adjusting the depth of the opening (Continuously Variable Valve Lift – CVVL). Previous variable valve control technologies could not regulate valve duration, as the valve’s closing timing was subordinate to opening timing and could not respond to diverse driving situations. CVVD takes the technology in a new direction by adjusting how long a valve is open.

When the vehicle is maintaining a constant speed and requires low engine output, CVVD opens the intake valve from the middle to end of the compression stroke. This helps to improve fuel efficiency by reducing the resistance caused by compression. On the other hand, when engine output is high, such as when the car is driving at a high speed, the intake valve is closed at the beginning of the compression stroke to maximize the amount of air used for combustion, enhancing torque to improve acceleration.

Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi Engine
Unveiled alongside the new CVVD technology, the new Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi Engine is a V4 turbocharged petrol unit with 180 bhp/265 Nm output. Besides using the Group’s new CVVD technology, it also features Low-Pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (LP EGR) to further optimize fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the new unit has an Integrated Thermal Management System that quickly heats or cools the engine to an optimal temperature, and a strong direct spray system that achieves 350 bar, surpassing the 250 bar of the previous T-GDi engine. In addition, engine friction is reduced by 34% with the application of low friction moving parts.

“The development of the CVVD technology is a good example how HMG is strengthening our powertrain technology,” said Albert Biermann, President and Head of Research & Development Division at Hyundai Motor Group. “We will continue our innovation efforts to bring forth paradigm shifts and ensure sustainability of our business model.”

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