Hyundai Plug-In By 2012

We already know Hyundai isn't messing around with it's march upward and relentless pursuit of the competition. That has been evident in it's recent products. They intend to play in all segments, and that includes plug-in hybrids.

That's the Hyundai BLUE-WILL Concept, released on March 25th ahead of the Seoul Motor Show. Hyundai says they want to put a plug-in hybrid into production by late 2012.  The BLUE-WILL Concept is basically a prerunner to their intentions; I'd expect the basic design, sans the numerous concept elements of course, to form the basis for the production Hyundai vehicle.

It's certainly a very interesting design, with an somewhat angry face. Not the most beautiful design there is, but it's unique to be sure. Those criss-crossing side body lines are cool; I wonder if they serve any purpose other then aesthetics. Shaping is similar to others in the segment. Prius, Insight, Volt; doesn't matter, they all reach a similar conclusion due to aerodynamics. 

For the U.S exterior design contest the Volt wins, with the Insight coming in second place. GM's resources have been well spent putting money into a class-leader and class-changing vehicle. I can't wait to drive one. In the attainable vehicle category, it's my favorite, along with Tesla's Model S and Cadillac's CTS.

The Volt has proved to be the benchmark. But the fact is, if everything goes to plan these cars will all be very similar in specifications and even design to some degree.  Hyundai says the BLUE-WILL Concept gets 38 miles in electric mode, with a 1.6L Direct-Injected gas engine providing recharging power after that.

Hyundai has come to grips with the fact that these plug-in hybrids will be no moneymakers, at least in the beginning. "We want to show our technological image to get people to the dealerships to drive our cars. We are not necessarily trying to make money on hybrids." says Hyundai R&D President Yang Woong-chul.

Competition is good for the consumer and there will be a lot of choices available out there. Everyone is trying to get in on this segment and that bodes well for the future of the technology. I do hope that someday as the technology progresses the technology can be placed in stylish vehicles though, more in the Model S vein. Maybe GM can prove that with the Converj?