Hyundai unveils another prototype PHEV SUV, and that makes 7 concept cars with the same inspiration!

Up to 7 concept cars have been presented under the Sensuous Sportiness concept from the Hyundai Design Center in California, the latest being a prototype PHEV SUV

Whether from South Korea or the United States, key locations for the future and design of the next generations of Hyundai cars, there is a constant stream of proposals based on the concept known as Sensuous Sportiness.

A conceptual work that seeks to capture sportiness and appeal in one and the same blend of essences. The problem arises when, currently, the dynamics and inertia of the automotive industry show that, with few exceptions, this combination is made in crossover or SUV bodies.

Whether with sister proposals, such as the recently presented Kia Futuron Concept, or external ones, such as the reformulation of the Alfa Romeo range, which will offer practically 75 percent of its cars with SUV bodies, the decision to present yet another PHEV SUV prototype from Hyundai is no surprise, but it still holds some interest.

And it does so thanks to solutions in terms of aerodynamics and improved fuel efficiency, given that it is a plug-in hybrid vehicle, featuring a main combustion engine running on conventional fuel and a supporting electric system, rechargeable by plugging into a power outlet.

The future of Hyundai PHEV SUVs

Be that as it may, the grille features active shutters that can tilt depending on the vehicle’s situation. Thus, when the car is stationary, its front resembles that of an electric car, with a flat, closed grille. When it starts moving, the slats open, letting in the air used both for fuel combustion and for cooling the engine block, as well as for improving its aerodynamics.

In other words, the grille has a dynamic and aerodynamic effect that influences both fuel efficiency and how efficiently the car cuts through the air while moving.

Furthermore, thanks to the panels that make up its bodywork, the athletic and rugged look shown in the video below gives it a tough yet very attractive and even dynamic stance. This is where the Hyundai Design Center philosophy justifies its inclusion among the 7 prototypes already presented under the Sensuous Sportiness banner.

https://youtu.be/eB3O3lH8fgk

The striking lighting, in general, adds an extra touch of uniqueness to this Hyundai PHEV SUV although, while it is more typical of a show car than a production model, it does show details that could make it into production, such as the “winged” front light clusters or the rear lights, not to mention the aforementioned active opening and closing system for the front grille.

This car will make its debut under the spotlight of the Los Angeles Auto Show, from November 18 to 21.