Hyundai I-Oniq Concept For Geneva Motor Show

 

This is the Hyundai i-oniq concept, a hatchback that provides a possible glimpse into the Korean brand’s stylistic and technological future. It’s set to appear at the 2012 Geneva auto show.

Here’s what we know so far: The i-oniq’s powertrain combines a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gas engine, lithium-ion batteries of unknown capacity, and a 108-hp electric motor. It’s an extended-range setup, so the engine feeds power to a generator that juices the batteries, which in turn provide energy to the electric motor. If the i-oniq were a real car that someone were inclined to drive on actual roads, Hyundai says that it could travel 75 miles on electricity alone before the internal-combustion engine is needed. Total range when electrons and petrochemicals both get to party is 435 miles.

The concept is 173.2 inches long—just 1.6 longer than a five-door Ford Focus—but it looks far more substantial in this single official picture, thanks in large part to the visual weight carried by the flat, slabby sides. A tall rocker panel, small door frame, and seriously chopped greenhouse contribute, too. We see some Nissan 350Z in the hood and headlamps—which are LED units—but really dig the A-pillar treatment, whereby the pillar spreads open as it flows over the side windows. The creases then diverge before apparently terminating at the corners of the backlight. It’s a subtle piece of flair on an otherwise pretty straightforward design.