Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Hyundai releases 2010 Accent details, pricing, talks up Blue's fuel economy]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/hyundai-releases-2010-accent-details-pricing-talks-up-blues-f/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/hyundai-releases-2010-accent-details-pricing-talks-up-blues-f/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/hyundai-releases-2010-accent-details-pricing-talks-up-blues-f/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Hyundai Accent - Click above for high-res image gallery

The big news for Hyundai's updated 2010 Accent is fuel efficiency. The Korean automaker has managed to improve average miles per gallon by four percent in the city and three percent on the highway by means of low-friction engine internals, aero improvements, low-resistance tires and a so-called "smart" alternator system.

Interestingly, the least expensive Accent for 2010 is the new Blue model, which will start at $9,970 (plus destination) and will be aided by revised transmission gearing and a lowered ride height to manage a combined 31 miles per gallon. Also new on some models is an iPod USB port that both charges the music player and allows for its control through the equally new steering wheel audio controls.

Power for the Accent comes from a 1.6-liter four cylinder engine that features continuously variable valve timing and manages 110 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a standard five-speed manual (which is rowed with a B&M shifter on SE models) or an optional four-speed automatic. Manual models will get an EcoShift light while autos receive a green ECO light to indicate when the driver is achieving optimal fuel efficiency.

Price? As previously mentioned, the entry-level Blue model can be had for under $10K - making it the cheapest new car available in the United States - while the least expensive version with an automatic transmission goes for $12,995. Top-of-the-line SE three-doors start at $16,995. Add an extra $720 for shipping, regardless of trim. Click past the break for the complete press release.



[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai releases 2010 Accent details, pricing, talks up Blue's fuel economy

Hyundai releases 2010 Accent details, pricing, talks up Blue's fuel economy originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai accent2010 hyundai accent blue2010 hyundai accent gs2010 hyundai accent gse2010 hyundai accent se2010HyundaiAccent2010HyundaiAccentBlue2010HyundaiAccentGs2010HyundaiAccentGse2010HyundaiAccentSehyundaihyundai accenthyundai accent bluehyundai accent gshyundai accent gsehyundai accent seHyundaiAccentHyundaiAccentBlueHyundaiAccentGsHyundaiAccentGseHyundaiAccentSeWed, 07 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue improves fuel efficiency to 35 mpg, starts at $14,145]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-hyundai-elantra-blue-improves-fuel-efficiency/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-hyundai-elantra-blue-improves-fuel-efficiency/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/2010-hyundai-elantra-blue-improves-fuel-efficiency/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue - click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai has added a new Blue edition of the Elantra compact sedan for the 2010 model year that ups the highway mileage number to 35 mpg with 26 mpg in the city. All 2010 Elantras get engine updates that include lower friction internal components, calibration updates and a smart alternator management system to reduce the parasitic losses. The Blue adds a five-speed manual gearbox with revised ratios to reduce engine speeds on the highway.

All other Elantras get a four-speed automatic transmission with an updated torque converter. The lock up clutch is improved to increase the efficiency at highway speeds. The automatic Elantra is rated at 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. While most of the high efficiency variants of cars in Europe, like VW's Bluemotion models, usually carry a price premium, the Elantra Blue is actually the entry level model and starts at $14,145. Unfortunately, only the four-door sedan is available in the Blue edition. The five-door Elantra Touring doesn't get a Blue model.

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue improves fuel efficiency to 35 mpg, starts at $14,145

2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue improves fuel efficiency to 35 mpg, starts at $14,145 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 hyundai2010 hyundai elantra2010 hyundai elantra blue2010Hyundai2010HyundaiElantra2010HyundaiElantraBlueelantrahyundaihyundai elantrahyundai elantra blueHyundaiElantraHyundaiElantraBlueMon, 21 Sep 2009 16:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hyundai ix-Metro concept - Click above for high-res image gallery


Hyundai returned to Frankfurt a far bigger player than it was two years prior. The Korean company has leapt up the sales standings to become the world's fourth largest automaker, eclipsing such major players as Ford and Honda. And its product line has long since expanded from diminutive hatchbacks to include crossovers and luxury sedans. What better way, then, to mark its newfound stature than to unveil... a diminutive hatchback/crossover thing?

Of course, Hyundai also unveiled the new ix35 Tucson, but presented along side was the automaker's vision for a compact hybrid. Called the ix Metro, it may be about the same size as the Geo that once bore the same name, but packs more curves and creases into the same plot of real estate than a linen mill. Curiously, Hyundai hasn't provided any details on the electric component of the hybrid drivetrain, but the conventional side of the equation boasts direct injection, variable valve timing and a turbocharger in a tiny 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, driving through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The interior looks like something straight out of Star Trek, but don't take our word for it, check it out for yourself in the gallery below.






Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us

Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowhybridhyundaihyundai hybridhyundai ixhyundai ix metrohyundai metroHyundaiHybridHyundaiIxHyundaiIxMetroHyundaiMetroixmetroWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Hyundai Santa Fe gets new diesel in Europe along with 6-speeds]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/13/2010-hyundai-santa-fe-gets-new-diesel-in-europe-along-with-6-spe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/13/2010-hyundai-santa-fe-gets-new-diesel-in-europe-along-with-6-spe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/13/2010-hyundai-santa-fe-gets-new-diesel-in-europe-along-with-6-spe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe - click above for high res image gallery

Hyundai is introducing a refreshed version of its Santa Fe SUV for the 2010 model year. The European version will be shown next week in Frankfurt with updated fascias and powertrains. Europeans will be able to get a new diesel engine in addition to a revised gas engine. The 2.2-liter diesel is rated at 197 hp and 311 lb-ft or torque which should be plenty for the Santa Fe. Combined with a new 6-speed manual gearbox, the Hyundai is rated at 35.6 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined driving cycle. The gas engine is a 2.4-liter unit with 174 hp that gets 27.7 mpg (U.S.) on the same test.

Unfortunately, the last time we checked with Hyundai, they had backed away from any plans to offer diesels in the U.S. market so we will only get gas engines when the update arrives here late this year. For 2009, the U.S. Santa Fe is only offered with V6 engines, but a new direct injected four is also expected be part of the lineup. The 6-speed automatic transmission will almost certainly be part of the U.S. lineup for the refresh.

Gallery: 2010 Hyunda Santa Fe Europe


[Source: Carscoop]

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe gets new diesel in Europe along with 6-speeds originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai ix Metro - click above for a high-res image gallery

We've already seen a mini-preview of the Hyundais ix35 that will be on display in Frankfurt in a few weeks, but the real exciting vehicles are the ones that the company is teasing today. The ix Metro and the i10 Electric will be am Main to show off the Korean automaker's Blue Drive eco-efforts.

The ix Metro, above, a gasoline-electric hybrid with CO2 emissions of just 80 grams per kilometer will make its world debut at the IAA. The amazingly low emissions, especially from a CUV, are the result of a small, 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine with direct injection and turbocharging mated to a six-speed dual clutch transmission that works with an undescribed battery to move the vehicle.

The i10 Electric (pictured after the jump) is a zero-emission version of the standard i10 city car that uses a 16 kWh battery and a 49kW motor for a 100-mile range. Using household 220V charging, the battery can be fully charged in five hours. Hyundai says the BEV is production-ready and will go on sale in its home market in the second half of 2010.

Hyundai will also bring Elantra LPI HEV and the Blue Will Plug-In Hybrid Electric, both previously displayed, to Frankfurt. We'll have more live from Frankfurt on September 15th.

Gallery: Hyundai line-up for 2010 Frankfurt Motor Show

58524hyu-58524-a-hyu-58524-b-hyu-58524-e-hyu-58524-c-hyu-

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Hyundai goes Blue (Drive) with ix Metro and i10 Electric

Frankfurt Preview: Hyundai goes Blue (Drive) with ix Metro and i10 Electric originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsehyundaihyundai ix metrohyundai ix35HyundaiIx35HyundaiIxMetroFri, 04 Sep 2009 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Hyundai ix35, the SUV with mainstream hatchback running costs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/frankfurt-preview-hyundai-ix35-the-suv-with-mainstream-hatchba/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/frankfurt-preview-hyundai-ix35-the-suv-with-mainstream-hatchba/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/25/frankfurt-preview-hyundai-ix35-the-suv-with-mainstream-hatchba/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hyundai ix35 - Click image above to enlarge

Hyundai sells a lot of Tucson SUVs in Europe but, if people want to buy the latest "version" of the Tucson next spring they'll need to forget the name and ask for something called an ix35 instead. Hyundai, like so many other automakers, apparently thinks cats walking on keyboards is a great way to name vehicles, and will be bringing the ix35 to the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. While Hyundai isn't saying what sort of powerplant will sit underhood, the company is claiming that enhanced aerodynamics and a "more refined powertrain technology" (compared to the Tucson) will reduce fuel use and CO2 emissions to the point where the running costs for the ix35 will "compete head on ... with mainstream hatchbacks." This is a small SUV, to be sure, but that claim is nonetheless mighty impressive. We'll find out exactly what the numbers are when the ix35 is revealed on September 15th.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Hyundai ix35, the SUV with mainstream hatchback running costs

Frankfurt Preview: Hyundai ix35, the SUV with mainstream hatchback running costs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt motor showFrankfurtMotorShowhyundaihyundai ix35HyundaiIx35ix35Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid caught in the desert]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/spy-shots-2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-caught-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai plans to launch its first-ever hybrid in America, based on the next-generation Sonata midsize sedan, in late 2010. As we can see from this series of spy shots, testing is well underway as the Korean automaker was spotted out and about in the desert with a heavily camoflauged 2011 Sonata Hybrid - and there were hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima in tow.

Hyundai has taken a slightly different approach to energy storage, using flat lithium polymer battery packs holding 5.3 Ah of capacity at 270 volts in lieu of nickel metal hydride or lithium ion technology. Expect the hybrid bits to add 30kW of power to Hyundai's 2.4-liter Theta II four cylinder powerplant mated up with a six-speed automatic transmission. A quick glance underhood shows the telltale bright orange wiring normally associated with hybrid automobiles.

A closer look at the spy photos shows that Hyundai will apply the currently-popular four-door coupe trend to its next Sonata. We also clearly note radically sweeping headlamps that stretch all the way past the front wheel arches, a rising bodyside ridge and a vaguely Genesis-esque front grille treatment. Expect all of these styling elements on both the standard 2011 Sonata and its accompanying hybrid sibling.



Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid caught in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Automakers in the U.S. are scrambling to figure out how best to sell their vehicles under the new cash-for-clunkers Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS). BMW is offering "Eco Credits" for some of its diesels and Chrysler is offering "Double CA$H For Your Old Car". Hyundai has been offering clunker deals since early July, and recently took a look at what people are trading in and what they're buying. There is potential good news for people who think that CARS will have a big impact on American fuel use.

Hyundai's early statistics show that the average change from old vehicle to new is a nearly 60 percent improvement in fuel economy. This is helped, in part, but the fact that 83 percent of the vehicles being traded in are trucks, SUVs or vans and 86 percent of the new vehicles being bought are passenger cars. If these numbers indicate how CARS shoppers will continue to buy new vehicles for the life of the program, Hyundai believes that, annually, the U.S. will reduce fuel use by 69 million gallons, save $170 Million in fuel costs and reduce CO2 emissions by 600,000 metric tons thanks to the legislation.

[Source: Hyundai Motor America]

Continue reading Hyundai: CARS (cash for clunkers) will improve fuel economy by 60 percent

Hyundai: CARS (cash for clunkers) will improve fuel economy by 60 percent originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscash for clunkersCashForClunkersfuel economyFuelEconomyhyundaihyundai carshyundai cash for clunkersHyundaiCarsHyundaiCashForClunkersmpgFri, 24 Jul 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai investing $3.3 billion in green technologies by 2013]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/hyundai-investing-3-3-billion-in-green-technologies-by-2013/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/hyundai-investing-3-3-billion-in-green-technologies-by-2013/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/hyundai-investing-3-3-billion-in-green-technologies-by-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Hyundai Avante LPI Hybrid - Click for high-res image gallery

Korean automaker Hyundai knows how it can meet South Korea's upcoming new emissions and fuel efficiency legislation: by spending $3.3 billion between now and 2013.

About $1.8 billion of that figure will be dedicated to the development of hybrid vehicles, another $1.1 billion to improve overall engine efficiency, and the remainder will be used on energy facilities to cut emissions. Hyundai joins other local companies in meeting the government's standards. Samsung, for example, announced $4.3 billion for investing in green technologies. The South Korean government announced early this month that the country will spend two percent of its annual gross domestic product in the environmental sector.

[Source: Reuters]

Hyundai investing $3.3 billion in green technologies by 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013anti-pollution rulesAnti-pollutionRulesgreen investmentGreenInvestmentinvestmentkorean antipollution rulesKoreanAntipollutionRulessamsungsouth koreaSouthKoreaFri, 24 Jul 2009 10:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia: Mass-produced fuel cell cars would cost $50,000 today]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/kia-mass-produced-fuel-cell-cars-would-cost-50-000-today/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/kia-mass-produced-fuel-cell-cars-would-cost-50-000-today/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/kia-mass-produced-fuel-cell-cars-would-cost-50-000-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Kia Borrego FCEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Let's face it: Hydrogen technology still has a ways to go before there's any real chance that we'll all be driving fuel cell cars in lieu of electric or fossil fuel-burning machines. Chief among the issues confronting the widespread adoption of hydrogen for automotive use is cost, though that obstacle is currently being worked on. According to Byung Ki-Ahn, general manager of Kia's Mabuk-ri site, "Even if we were producing 50,000 fuel cell cars a year, they would currently have to cost $50,000 each."

While it would be easy for hydrogen proponents to latch on to this statement as good news - and, if true, that pricing is considerably better than we would have predicted - there's more to overcome than just the pricey fuel cell stack. For instance, even if Kia were indeed building 50,000 fuel cell cars per year, there would need to be an adequate infrastructure to support those vehicles. Further, a low cost and eco-friendly process for capturing, storing and transporting large amounts of hydrogen still needs to be developed.

Regardless, it's clear that Kia, along with corporate cousin Hyundai, believe these issues will be worked out in time. When asked where the Korean automaker currently sits on a production-ready hydrogen vehicle, Ki-Ahn said, "On a scale of one to 10, I'd say we we're at six or seven. Before 2020, many people will be hearing about fuel cell vehicles made by Hyundai-Kia."


Gallery: Kia Borrego FCEV


[Source: Galway Independent via Hydrogen Discoveries]

Kia: Mass-produced fuel cell cars would cost $50,000 today originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenCarHydrogenFuelCellhyundaihyundai fuel cellhyundai kiaHyundaiFuelCellHyundaiKiakiakia fuel cellkia hydrogenKiaFuelCellKiaHydrogenThu, 23 Jul 2009 12:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai: Production Veloster to be positioned as Eco-Sport car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hyundai-production-volster-to-be-positioned-as-eco-sport-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hyundai-production-volster-to-be-positioned-as-eco-sport-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hyundai-production-volster-to-be-positioned-as-eco-sport-car/#commentsFiled under: ,


2007 Hyundai Veloster concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last February, we revealed that a production version of the Hyundai Veloster was in the works and would likely hit the market as a late 2011 or 2012 model. Speaking to Inside Line, Hyundai of America's President and CEO John Krafcik says the Korean automaker plans to position the Veloster as an 'Eco-Sport' car.

According to Krafcik, the car will be significantly smaller than Hyundai's own Genesis Coupe (not to mention the Kia Forte) and will be powered by a 1.6-liter four-banger fortified with direct injection that will offer up 140 horsepower while returning over 40 miles per gallon.

Krafcik goes on to say the new machine will look 70-to-80 percent like the Veloster concept that we saw firsthand at the LA Auto Show in 2007, and it will feature some sort of unique styling element. Says Krafcik, "It might be doors or a unique roof or something with the hatch. But it won't be like anything out there before in the small car segment."

"Think of it like a four-passenger Honda CRX. It'll be a little car you can take out and wring its neck and still get good mileage," he said. "Fun and economical, with a great power-to-weight ratio." Sounds like a winner. All that's left to figure out is the car's name, which may or may not end up being either Veloster or Tiburon.


[Source: Inside Line]

Hyundai: Production Veloster to be positioned as Eco-Sport car originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai BLUE-WILL Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's first-ever hybrid automobile for the U.S. market will be based on the redesigned 2011 Sonata midsize sedan, but it certainly isn't the only fuel-saver the Korean automaker has in store. According to Automotive News, Yang Woong-chul, president of R&D for Hyundai-Kia Motors, has reiterated his company's plans to aggressively enter the increasingly crowded hybrid market.

To that end, Hyundai plans to launch a new sporty plug-in electric car based on the striking Blue-Will concept from the Seoul Motor Show earlier this year. Powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injected powerplant and 100kw electric motor mated up with a CVT automatic transmission, the Blue-Will reportedly has a range of 38 miles in EV mode and an overall rating of 55 mpg when the gas engine is in operation.

Expect a similar drivetrain for the production car when it hits the market in 2012 to go up against the upcoming Chevy Volt and the plug-in version of Toyota's standard-bearing Prius hybrid. So far, there's no word on expected pricing for the PHEV, but Hyundai says the goal is to 'show its technology and improve its image,' not to make money. Consider our interest piqued.

Gallery: Hyundai BLUE-WILL hybrid concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Hyundai planning plug-in sports car for 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai Avante LPI Hybrid - Click for high-res image gallery

Hyundai only launched retail sales of its first hybrid a couple of weeks ago, but the South Korean automaker has already received 1,000 orders in its home market. Hyundai's hybrid system has been installed in the Avante (which is sold elsewhere as the Elantra). The Avante is the first retail hybrid available with an engine running on liquefied petroleum gas.

The Avante uses a 15 kW electric motor mounted between the engine and transmission along with an integrated starter-generator to provide stop-start functionality. Hyundai has no plans to sell this or the Kia Forte hybrid outside of Korea in their current forms. However, Hyundai will launch a hybrid version of the new Sonata with a 30 kW motor later in 2010 in North America. The redesigned Sonata will debut in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Sonata will use a lithium polymer battery, the first such application in a hybrid.

[Source: Canadian Driver]

Hyundai gets 1,000 retail orders for its Avante LPI hybrid in South Korea originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai avantehyundai avante elantra lpihyundai avante hybridhyundai avante lpi hybridHyundaiAvanteHyundaiAvanteElantraLpiHyundaiAvanteHybridHyundaiAvanteLpiHybridliquified natural gasliquified petroleum gasliquified-petroleum-gasLiquifiedNaturalGasliquifiedpetroleumgasMon, 06 Jul 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerafuel pricesFuelPricesgasgas lockgas pricesGasLockgasoline pricesGasolinePricesGasPriceshyundaihyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesrebatessanta feSantaFesonatatucsonveracruzTue, 30 Jun 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai to launch direct injection for 2010 Santa Fe, Sonata]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/hyundai-to-launch-direct-injection-for-2010-santa-fe-sonata/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/hyundai-to-launch-direct-injection-for-2010-santa-fe-sonata/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/hyundai-to-launch-direct-injection-for-2010-santa-fe-sonata/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Hyundai Sonata being evaluated on a Detroit area freeway

Hyundai's Montgomery, AL factory added production of four-cylinder engines last year, but recently the engine line has been getting some upgrades. Evidently, Hyundai is getting ready to add direct injection to its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Like other DI engines, the revised version gets increased power along with lower fuel consumption. The DI four cylinder will debut in the refreshed 2010 Santa Fe this fall. Next year, when the completely redesigned Sonata goes into production, it will also get the DI engine.

Power from the DI four cylinder gets bumped from 176 to 200 hp, and it will likely get around 5-10 percent better gas mileage. The all-new Sonata will be unveiled at the LA Auto Show in November. Next year, a hybrid model will join the lineup, as well.

[Source: Montgomery Advertiser]

Hyundai to launch direct injection for 2010 Santa Fe, Sonata originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>direct injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectionhyundaihyundai direct injectionHyundaiDirectInjectionFri, 19 Jun 2009 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai starts accepting orders for Avante LPI Hybrid in Korea]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/hyundai-starts-accepting-orders-for-avante-lpi-hybrid-in-korea/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/hyundai-starts-accepting-orders-for-avante-lpi-hybrid-in-korea/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/hyundai-starts-accepting-orders-for-avante-lpi-hybrid-in-korea/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Avante LPI Hybrid - Click for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's Avante LPI Hybrid has been a long time coming. First discussed back in 2007, the company is finally ready to take pre-orders for the LPG-electric hybrid in Korea. According to the Korea Herald, interested buyers can raise their hand for an Avante LPI Hybrid as of today, but the exact price that they'll be paying won't be announced until the sometime before the vehicles July 8 launch date. Like it's Kia sibling, the Forte Hybrid, the Avante LPI Hybrid can burn liquefied petroleum gas (propane). The Avante uses a 1.6 liter engine alongside the lithium polymer batteries and features regenerative braking, stop/start and the ability to travel solely on electric power. Hyundai says that the hybrid gets fuel economy of 42 mpg (U.S.), and that this is equivalent 52 mpg (U.S.) in a gasoline-powered vehicle. Solid.

[Source: Korea Herald]

Hyundai starts accepting orders for Avante LPI Hybrid in Korea originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avanteavante hybridavante lpi hybridAvanteHybridAvanteLpiHybridhyundaihyundai avantehyundai avante hybridhyundai hybridHyundaiAvanteHyundaiAvanteHybridHyundaiHybridTue, 16 Jun 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Euro NCAP finds small cars offer plenty of protection]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Europe's crash testing authority, Euro NCAP, has published a series of new tests that includes the latest small and fuel efficient models offered there. The top scorers in the small car segment, with five star results, were the Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20 and Kia Soul. The Audi Q5 and the Peugeot 3008 also scored the maximum in their category. What Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, said that the findings should help combat the false feeling that only large cars are safe: "Many claim that the weight and size of a car is the only criteria for safety. We believe that there are other aspects of safety that are just as important. The smaller cars we tested whose results are released today show that size should not stand in the way of all-round safety," he said.

[Source: Euro NCAP]

Euro NCAP finds small cars offer plenty of protection originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 28 May 2009 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3008altoaudi a5AudiA5crash testCrashTesteuro ncapeuroncaphonda jazzHondaJazzhyundai i20HyundaiI20i20jazzkia soulKiaSoulpeugeot 3008Peugeot3008Q5safetysoulsuzuki altoSuzukiAltoThu, 28 May 2009 19:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai reports 4,000 scrap car trades in UK, reveals some surprises]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/hyundai-reports-4-000-scrap-car-trades-in-uk-reveals-some-surpr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/hyundai-reports-4-000-scrap-car-trades-in-uk-reveals-some-surpr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/hyundai-reports-4-000-scrap-car-trades-in-uk-reveals-some-surpr/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Governments all over the world have introduced Cash-For-Clunkers-style programs that are nothing if not controversial. While the stated intent of each of these schemes is to increase new car sales and remove older, dirtier and less fuel efficient vehicles from the road, some powerful organizations have voiced concerns that untold numbers of classic machinery may be lost forever for no good reason. Could it be that both sides are right? New car buyers in the UK are reportedly flocking to Hyundai dealers in droves with a bevy of older vehicles in tow. According to Tony Whitehorn, Hyundai UK's managing director:
For many [the scrappage scheme] is an opportunity to buy their first ever new car, and is enormously exciting. Some people look a little embarrassed when they turn up at a showroom with an old car which is literally falling to pieces but we're happy to take anything as long as it meets the government's criteria. Other buyers have taken the decision to wave goodbye to cars which have been in the family for a generation, but their sadness soon disappears when they get into their new Hyundai.
So, just what kinds of cars are being traded in? The Korean automaker reports that both a Jaguar XJ-S and XJ6 have both been scrapped, as have 34 BMWs, 22 Audis and 32 vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. Six Mazda MX-5's, seven MGFs, a 1966 Austin 1100 and a 1968 Morris Minor were also sent to the great scrapheap in the sky along with at least one Citroen that lost a wheel on the way to the dealership.

[Source: The Green Car Website | Photo: Matt and Kim Rudge]

Hyundai reports 4,000 scrap car trades in UK, reveals some surprises originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Modern compact SUVs don't need to drink fuel at quite the rate of their larger, more easily spotted cousins (HUMMER, Range Rover, we're looking at you). Over in Europe, drivers have opened their arms to compact SUVs as an alternative to sedans and mini vans. Current offerings share car platforms and can be found with the decent-mileage diesel engines. How frugal are these mid-size SUVs, really? Follow us after the jump and you will see the 20 most economical compact SUVs available in Germany (check out last year's CO2-based list here).

Gallery: Toyota Urban Cruiser


[Source: Auto News]

Continue reading 20 fuel sipping diesel SUV/CUV/crossovers available in Germany

20 fuel sipping diesel SUV/CUV/crossovers available in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 07 May 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossoverdiesel suvDieselSuveuropean suvsEuropeanSuvsfuel sipping suvsFuelSippingSuvsThu, 07 May 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai Genesis sales pay for forest preservation and restoration projects]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/hyundai-genesis-sales-pay-for-forest-preservation-and-restoratio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/hyundai-genesis-sales-pay-for-forest-preservation-and-restoratio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/hyundai-genesis-sales-pay-for-forest-preservation-and-restoratio/#commentsFiled under: ,



Last fall, Hyundai announced that for every Genesis sedan sold during the 2009 model year it would make carbon offset grants equivalent to the CO2 emissions of those cars. Six months into the program, Hyundai Motor America is now paying out the first award grants totaling over $100,000. Three grants of $35,000 each are going to programs in Peru, Mozambique, and Kenya. The Peruvian project is meant to battle deforestation in the Alto Mayo Protected Forest while new trees are being planted in Mozambique to rehabilitate forests that have already been damaged. The Kenyan project will employ over 100 people re-planting trees in a threatened rain forest.

Hyundai is working with CarbonFund.org to identify and fund worthy projects. The program will continue through the 2009 model year and is expected to offset over 93,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide. The press release is after the jump.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai Genesis sales pay for forest preservation and restoration projects

Hyundai Genesis sales pay for forest preservation and restoration projects originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 01 May 2009 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbonfundcarbonfund.orghyundaihyundai genesishyundai genesis forest projectHyundaiGenesisHyundaiGenesisForestProjectFri, 01 May 2009 14:54:00 EST