Drunk or drowsy? This cabin controller from Hyundai wouldn't let you drive

24 June 2022

Drowsy or drunken driving is one of the major causes of major traffic accidents. Automakers are applying driver negligence monitoring technologies to prevent it.

Hyundai Mobis, the parts-making unit of Hyundai Motors, has come up with a smart cabin controller that can monitor and analyse various biometric signals such as driver's posture, heart rate, and brain wave in real time to ensure safe driving.

This safety technology is focused on the occupants rather than on vehicle performance, working autonomously from the overall car package and making sure drivers are given the tools to drive as effectively as possible.

The company said that this is the first time a dedicated healthcare controller has been developed that can perform an integrated analysis of various vital signs.

Cheon Jae-seung, head of the R&D division, Hyundai Mobis, said: "Based on the unique vital signs database we've built up, we will upgrade this technology further to provide more features, including carsickness prevention, stress management, and the blocking of drunk driving."

The technology behind Hyundai Mobis' new cabin controller

(Image credit: Hyundai Mobis)

Mobis, which has christened the new tech as Smart Cabin Controller, said it is equipped with four sensors: a 3D camera to capture the posture of occupants, an ECG sensor mounted on the steering wheel will keep a tab on the heart of the driver, an ear-set sensor will measure the brainwaves flowing around ears and an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) sensor will measure the temperature / humidity and carbon dioxide level of the cabin.

The controller analyzes various vital signs collected from these sensors in real time to help with safe driving.

Based on such information, an alarm can ring or be displayed on any of the digital display systems in the vehicle.

If the ECG sensor detects a high stress level in the driver, it can recommend switching to the autonomous switching mode or even stop the vehicle, if need be.

It can open windows or switches to the outside-circulation mode if the CO2 level is too high. "This technology is expected to further evolve to be able to guide the vehicle to an emergency room in case of an emergency, such as cardiac arrest," Cheon Jae-seung added.

(Image credit: Hyundai Mobis)

Last year, Hyundai Mobis unveiled 'M.Brain', a brainwave-based driver monitoring system, and 'M.VICS', an autonomous driving cockpit system equipped with various new healthcare technologies, including an ECG sensor, driver monitoring camera, and carsickness reduction technology.

The driver’s attention is assessed by combining the driving data such as lane departure, steering wheel control, acceleration and deceleration, and the other data of driver status such as eye blink detection.

Source: Tech Radar

Hyundai Wants to Spend Billions to Become an Electric Car Powerhouse

19 May 2022

It wasn’t two days ago when we were talking about Hyundai being a real force in EVs, and, what do you know, on Wednesday Hyundai and Kia announced a new plan to spend $16.5 billion on EV development in what is an EV arms race among automakers.

From Bloomberg:

Hyundai Motor Co. and its affiliate Kia plan to invest 21 trillion won ($16.5 billion) to boost the production of electric vehicles in South Korea, including the establishment of new factory that would ultimately have the capacity to make around 150,000 cleaner cars a year.
Under the plan, the two automakers aim to increase annual EV production in [South Korea] to 1.44 million units by 2030 from an expected 350,000 units this year, Hyundai said in a statement Wednesday. That forecast 1.44 million output would account for about 45% of Hyundai and Kia’s planned global EV production volume by then.
The new factory for purpose-built vehicles will be located within its existing Hwaseong manufacturing site, as said in a separate statement. Construction is expected to begin in the first half of 2023, with commercial production starting in the second half of 2025.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is a great buy and a top safety pick

03 May 2022

We’re big fans of the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric subcompact crossover. This excellent electric vehicle has won the KBB Electric Car Best Buy award in 2019, 2020, and 2021. In other words, for as long as the Kona Electric has existed.

The big question is: How far can the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric travel on a single charge? According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the range is 258 miles. This compares fairly well with the least expensive Tesla Model 3 TSLA, -2.19%, which can cover 263 miles. And especially with the Chevrolet Bolt EV that’s able to run for 259 miles. An unbeatable 10-year/100,000-mile warranty covers both the battery and powertrain in the 2022 Kona Electric. In crash tests, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the regular Kona its maximum score of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made it a Top Safety Pick.

Those are some of the tangible reasons that make the Hyundai Kona Electric a great vehicle, not just great for an EV. In addition, like every Hyundai Kona, the driving experience is enjoyable, the parking experience is easily tolerable, equipment levels are generous, and the interior is pleasant.

2022 Hyundai Kona Electric pricing

Before getting into the figures, where can you buy a 2022 Kona Electric? At the moment, it’s available in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Hyundai plans to make the Kona Electric available in neighboring states, depending on production and demand.

Pricing for the 2022 Hyundai Kona EV starts at $34,000 for SEL trim, which is more than $3,000 less than the 2021 model. The Limited trim (now the top of the range) comes in at $42,500. A $7,500 federal tax credit and other state incentives for electric vehicles can offset these initial costs.

The most affordable Tesla, the Model 3, starts at approximately $45K, and is now ineligible for the federal tax credit. The Chevrolet Bolt EV begins at about $31K.

Before buying, check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying for their new Kona Electric. The Tesla Model 3 will probably have the strongest resale values, but the Kona Electric shouldn’t be far behind.

Driving the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric

Officially, the range is 258 miles. But during our long-term testing with a Hyundai Kona Electric, we managed to tease out 275 miles by driving conservatively and making the most of the regenerative braking system.

At the performance end of an electric drivetrain’s attributes, the 291 lb-ft of torque in the Kona Electric enables quick launches from standstill as well as some mid-range punch for overtaking. Just because there are no emissions doesn’t mean there’s no fun.

Among the changes for the 2022 Kona Electric is a recalibration of the suspension that Hyundai says improves both ride quality and handling. The company has also installed new acoustic windshield glass and extra sound insulation to reduce noise, harshness, and vibration levels.

Interior comfort

Hyundai has managed to wrangle another half an inch of rear legroom, bringing it to 35.2 inches. That’s not as good as the Honda HR-V, but this is the smallest class of crossover. And the Kona Electric is better suited to city and suburb duty rather than road trips with the whole family on board.

A new 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen joins an equally fresh 10.25-inch digital driver information display in the Limited trim. This model also gains ambient cabin lighting. In both trims, the center console has been redesigned for 2022, with a lower section dedicated for wireless device charging.

How much cargo space does the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric have? There’s 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. When they’re folded down, the maximum area is 45.8 cubic feet.

Exterior styling

Although it’s perfectly logical to put the charge port on the front of the car, so connecting the cable is easier when the 2022 Kona Electric is parked nose-in, the flap is quite visible and looks a little awkward. Otherwise, this subcompact crossover looks pretty sharp.

The changes for 2022 include smaller LED headlights and thinner, stretched-out taillights. Last year’s dimpled nose gives way to a smoother look. New alloy wheel designs become available, and SEL trim offers the option of a 2-tone black roof.

You might like: Thinking about an electric car? An e-bike may make more sense (and save you more money)

Favorite features

Zero-emissions driving
Most manufacturers are adding hybrid gas/electric drivetrains. Some are pledging to go fully electric within a few years. It really looks like electric vehicles are the future, at least the near future. And it feels good to be in the vanguard of sustainable driving.

Blue Link connected car system
This feature links the Kona Electric to the wider world through the owner’s smartphone. Among the services it delivers are remote cabin pre-heating or cooling, remote locking, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle location, checking on battery levels, and setting the charging schedule.

Learn more: What is EV, BEV, HEV, PHEV? Here’s your guide to types of electric cars

Battery power, charge times, and range

An electric motor drives the Kona Electric’s front wheels to the tune of 201 horsepower and a gutsy 291 lb-ft of torque. It runs off a liquid-cooled 64-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Using a 240-volt charger, recharging takes about 9.5 hours. At a fast-charging DC station, the Kona EV can attain 80-percent capacity in 54 minutes.

Permanent-magnet synchronous motor
64-kWh lithium-ion battery pack
201 horsepower
291 lb-ft of torque
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 132/108 MPGe
EPA range: 258 miles

Source: Market Watch

Surprisingly, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Won US News' Best Family SUV

22 April 2022

Yes, in fact, the 2022 Hyundai Tuscon is the best family SUV out of every single compact option. The Tucson defeated remarkable rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue for this title.

U.S.News determined that the Tucson is the best by analyzing nine different automotive classes to ensure the best option for all family sizes and stages of life. The best family options work for households with toddlers, teens, and even grandparents.

About 96 new cars, SUVs, and minivans were analyzed based on credible reviews, safety, reliability, passenger space, cargo, and access to family favorite features. Vehicles with the highest composite scores earn the best for families title.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is incredibly safe. It received the Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). Plus, the Tucson received a ‘Good’ score in almost every crash simulation, which is the highest score possible.

The LED reflector headlights earned an Acceptable rating for providing inadequate illumination around curves. However, they never exceeded the glare limit. High beam assist compensates for some of the limitations around all four curves.

Also, the child seat tether system received an Acceptable score because the lower anchors are considered to be too deep in the seat.

But the anchors are easy to find, and no other hardware could be easily confused for them. The anchors don’t require too much force to attach, and it’s easy to maneuver around them.

The forward collision avoidance assist system can avoid collisions at 12 and 35 mph. During the 37 mph test, impact speed was reduced by 36 mph, and a warning was issued 1.9 seconds before impact.

Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist. You can opt for adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance.Yes, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson provides plenty of space and tech for families. You can access up to 38.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 80.3 cubes total. When properly equipped, the Tucson can tow up to 2,000 lbs.

The seats fold flat, and the liftover height is convenient for loading larger items. Also, there is plenty of storage for smaller items, and each of the cupholders can hold larger water bottles. The backseat is spacious, making it easy to install car seats.

An 8.8-inch touchscreen comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can upgrade to a larger 10.3-inch unit. Built-in navigation is available and features clear directions. Plus, the voice recognition system is receptive.

The 2022 Tucson has a peaceful interior with limited wind noise at highway speeds. The ride is smooth and comfortable to provide one of the best rides in the class. Best of all, the seats are large, well-padded, and supportive.

In terms of safety, tech, and comfort, the Tuscon checks off each box. It’s a great daily driver and road trip option for families.

Source: Motor Biscuit

Hyundai Is Becoming Tesla's Biggest Threat

17 May 2022

Audi, Tesla, GM, Ford, Stellantis, and probably everyone else are having production issues, while Hyundai could be a sleeping EV giant. All that and more in The Morning Shift for May 16, 2022.

Now, before anyone gets too upset, I’d like to recognize that Hyundai’s EVs and Tesla’s cars are, really, in different categories, given that Tesla is basically what American luxury looks like these days, while Hyundai makes EVs that are decidedly non-luxurious despite being very nice cars. That said, Tesla also likes to pretend that its cars are for the masses, even though a $25,000 Tesla is not coming any time soon, and probably never will.

All of that said, it is striking just how far Hyundai has come in the EV space, and, very, very quietly could be one of Tesla’s biggest threats, especially with a Genesis EV in the works. Scoff if you want, but that’s what we all did with Hyundai in the ‘90s, before they became a true powerhouse.

Hyundai has been helped by the fact that Nissan has mostly let the Leaf languish, and Toyota until very recently seemed not to give a damn about EVs, and also that Tesla seems committed to its strategy of ignoring model years, making Tesla’s current car lineup a bit long in the tooth. (Tesla’s last new car, the Model Y, started regular production in early 2020.)

Meanwhile, Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm that is swiftly going electric, will have three new EVs by the end of next year, and there will also be the Kia EV9, a a big SUV, along with the Hyundai Ioniq 6. Don’t look now, but there’s a real volume player in the EV game and it may not be Tesla.

Source: Jalopnik

Hyundai Motor’s STARIA MPV Wins Best of the Best at Red Dot Award

03 May 2022

Hyundai Motor Company announced today its STARIA multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) has won the ‘Best of the Best’ accolade at the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2022. The Best of the Best is awarded for groundbreaking design and is the highest title in the competition. STARIA took the honor in the Cars & Motorcycles category, further reinforcing Hyundai’s global competitiveness in product design.

“STARIA is Hyundai’s new MPV lineup crafted with the ‘inside-out’ design approach that has surely opened up a new mobility era for all,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President, Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “Our design team has put their passion into this product, working closely with our world-class modelers and engineers to make the dream come true.”

STARIA boasts a strikingly futuristic and mysterious exterior that resembles a space shuttle. A single stroke running from front to rear is reminiscent of the curve of light that illuminates the Earth’s horizon at sunrise when viewed from space.

The cruise ship-inspired interior delivers a luxurious look and unique atmosphere that focuses on the driver’s convenience and passengers’ comfort. The lowered beltlines and panoramic side windows improve overall visibility and create a feeling of openness. This sense of spaciousness, inspired by traditional Korean ‘hanok’ architecture, allows passengers to feel as if the outside scenes are an extension of the vehicle interior.

Since its launch last year, STARIA has won several accolades for its design excellence and product innovation. STARIA received the honor in the transportation category of the 2021 GOOD DESIGN Awards and was recognized in the ‘Best Cars 2022’ readers’ poll organized by Germany’s auto motor und sport magazine.

Hosted by Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen in Germany, Red Dot Award is one of the world’s largest design competitions. The award breaks down into three different disciplines: Product Design, Brand & Communication Design, and Design Concept, to better appraise the diversity in the field of design. The Red Dot Award: Product Design sets out to find the year’s best market-ready products that are aesthetically appealing, functional, smart or innovative.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 Sweeps World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle of the Year and World Car Design of the Year

14 April 2022

NEW YORK/SEOUL, April 13, 2022 – The highly acclaimed Hyundai IONIQ 5 won big at the prestigious 2022 World Car Awards today, with the all-electric crossover named overall World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle of the Year and World Car Design of the Year. World Car Awards revealed the results at a ceremony held at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).

IONIQ 5 was recognized by a jury of 102 automotive journalists from 33 countries around the world. The innovative battery electric vehicle (BEV), which has already won numerous international accolades, was considered alongside 27 competitor models launched in 2021, ultimately claiming victory over other finalists in all three categories in which it was nominated.

IONIQ 5 is the first model in Hyundai’s dedicated BEV lineup brand: IONIQ. It takes full advantage of a bespoke Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture to offer 800-V, ultra-fast charging capabilities for a 10 to 80 percent charge in just 18 minutes and a highly spacious interior. The unique packaging needs of an EV mean the axles can be pushed right to the front and back of the car, providing much more space than a traditional vehicle. When equipped with two-wheel drive (2WD) and up to 77.4-kWh battery, its maximum driving range on a single charge will be around 470~480 km, according to the WLTP standard. Its features include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, advanced connectivity and driver assistance systems that offer the ultimate in-car experience.

“We are truly honored to receive these prestigious awards, which recognize the talent and hard work of all our people and business partners at Hyundai Motor Company. Our vision is to enable Progress for Humanity, and this endorsement of our approach will serve to embolden our commitment to make this vision a reality,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company.

As Hyundai Motor transforms into a smart mobility solutions provider, the company is accelerating its electrification strategy to become the world’s leading EV maker. Hyundai plans to introduce 17 new BEV models by 2030, including Genesis luxury brand models, and aims to boost annual global BEV sales to 1.87 million units by 2030.

Chang added, “IONIQ 5 represents a pivotal achievement for us as we pioneer a new generation of smart mobility solutions with our innovative E-GMP platform technologies, exceptional performance and disruptive approach to design and space. IONIQ 5 has made a strong impression on increasingly eco-conscious consumers around the world, and its success supports the acceleration of electrification of the automotive industry. The pace of change at Hyundai will continue unabated through the rest of 2022 as we will soon be adding to our award-winning IONIQ range.”

IONIQ 5 heralds a new era in Hyundai design, defined by what the brand’s designers call ‘Parametric Dynamics’ with kinetic jewel-like surface details defining the BEV’s visual identity. The crossover’s unique exterior styling is characterized by clean, sharp lines that convey its dynamic presence on the road and distinctive ‘Parametric Pixel’ LED headlamps and rear lamps that leave a lasting impression.

Inside, IONIQ 5’s ‘Living Space’ interior theme takes full advantage of a 3,000-mm wheelbase to offer a never-before-seen moveable center console that allows passengers more freedom of movement. Many interior touchpoints use eco-friendly materials and textiles, such as eco-processed leather, sustainable fibers and bio paint, that reflect consumers’ rising interest in ethical, sustainable products.

“With IONIQ 5, we set out to create a new mobility experience — a game-changer,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “This extraordinary vehicle was made possible by the passion and efforts of designers and engineers who pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the EV space.”

Since its global launch last year, IONIQ 5 earned prestigious international honors, including German Car of the Year, UK Car of the Year, Auto Express’ Car of the Year and Auto Bild’s Electric Car of the Year. The model also took the top spot at the first-ever Best Cars of the Year 2021/2022 Awards.

For World Car of the Year, the jury selected IONIQ 5 from an initial entry list of 28 vehicles, then from three finalists. To be eligible for the category, vehicles must be produced in at least 10,000 units per year, priced below the luxury level in their primary markets, and on sale in at least two major markets on at least two continents at some time between Jan. 1, 2021 – Mar. 30, 2022.

For World Electric Vehicle of the Year, the jury selected IONIQ 5 from an initial entry list of 11 vehicles, then from three finalists. To be eligible for the category, vehicles must be powered solely by one or more electric motors, produced in volumes of at least 5,000 units per year and on sale in at least two major markets on at least two continents at some time between Jan. 1, 2021 – Mar. 30, 2022.

For World Car Design of the Year, the panel of six experts from France, Germany, Japan, U.K. and U.S. selected IONIQ 5 from all the contenders competing in the other five award categories. The panel reviewed each vehicle based on style and innovation that pushes established boundaries.

“We are proud to be part of the most important automotive awards program on the planet,” said Mark Schienberg, New York Auto Show president. “We are pleased to have everyone back at the Auto Show today for the winners’ live announcement. While the last two years have been challenging for everyone, car buyers are ready to come out and experience all the amazing new vehicles and technologies the industry has to offer. Congratulations and best of luck to all the finalists!”

The annual World Car Awards recognize the best design, luxury car, performance car, urban car, EV and the best car of the year. In February, the jury named Luc Donckerwolke, Hyundai Motor Group’s Chief Creative Officer, the 2022 World Car Person of the Year for his significant contribution overseeing new model developments, including IONIQ 5.