The global automotive market is experiencing a prolonged slowdown due to the electric vehicle “demand stagnation” that may be temporary. In response, Hyundai Motor Group is shifting its focus to hybrids to strengthen its competitiveness. The company has unveiled its next-generation hybrid system, which improves power efficiency by up to 45%.
A Shift in Strategy
With this new technology, Hyundai aims to close the technological gap with global automakers, including Toyota, and secure its position in the global market. The company has a clear strategy to adapt to market changes and has decided to produce hybrid cars at the “Hyundai Motor Group MetaPlant America” (HMGMA) electric vehicle plant in Georgia, U.S.
Key Features of the Next-Generation Hybrid System
* The new system is a 2.5-generation hybrid system that enhances efficiency and driving performance. * It allows driving on electric power alone and has a structure that can be combined with various engine lineups to provide optimized performance and fuel efficiency based on vehicle class and characteristics. * The system improves fuel efficiency and output by increasing the number of motors from one (P2) to two (P1 and P2). * The P1 motor transfers power to the engine and distributes driving force, effectively contributing to fuel efficiency improvements.
Application and Expansion
The next-generation hybrid system will be applied 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.
| Key Performance Indicators | Value |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (km/L) | 14.1 |
| Maximum Output (horsepower) | 334 |
| Peak Torque (kgf·m) | 46.9 |
Aiming for a Balanced Strategy
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. The company intends to offer a range of hybrid vehicles from small to large and luxury models.
Expansion to Hybrid Lineup
* Hyundai plans to introduce a 2.5 turbo hybrid for rear-wheel drive in 2026 and sequentially equip it in key Genesis models. * The next-generation hybrid system will expand from the current three models to five by 2030. The company aims to offer a balanced strategy to the market, with a focus on increasing both electric and hybrid vehicle production. Hyundai and Kia have decided to produce hybrid cars at the HMGMA electric vehicle plant in Georgia, U.S., and have started investing in a new line.
Competing with Hybrid Leader Toyota
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).
Conclusion
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. This technology, starting with the large SUV model ‘Palisade’, will be expanded and applied to other vehicle models. With its next-generation hybrid technology, Hyundai aims to close the technological gap with global automakers and secure its position in the global market.