L.A. Auto Show – Hyundai Showcases “Hyundai Blue Drive”

Hyundai HED-5 "i-Mode" Concept Makes North American Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show with new Eco-friendly Powertrain. Image Credit: Hyundai Motor Company

Los Angeles Auto Show – Hyundai Showcases “Hyundai Blue Drive”

Hyundai featured its proprietary fuel cell technology at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, highlighting its Tucson Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) as part of the company’s “Hyundai Blue Drive” sustainability effort. The Tucson FCEV recently celebrated the successful completion of a 13-day, cross-country road trip which served as the first significant U.S. test for the Hyundai-developed fuel cell stack.

Image Credit: Hyundai Motor Company

The nearly 4,300 mile event, called the Hydrogen Road Tour 2008, featured nine auto manufacturers and was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, the California Fuel Cell Partnership, National Hydrogen Association and U.S. Department of Transportation.

Image Credit: Hyundai Motor Company

The Tucson FCEV exceeded expectations throughout the event, demonstrating again that zero-emission vehicles can operate in real-world driving conditions. The vehicle recorded exceptional range of 185 miles per refueling, and achieved top speeds of 95 mph.

Image Credit: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai revealed plans for its first U.S. market gas-electric full hybrid (to be offered in the next-generation Sonata), introduced a sleek crossover concept powered by a turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine, and announced future high-mileage editions of the Accent and Elantra.

Hyundai announced the launch of Blue Drive, an environmental initiative which will bring to market a family of eco-friendly Blue Drive products.

Image Credit: Hyundai Motor Company

With Blue Drive products and technologies, Hyundai will be able to achieve a fleet average of 35 miles per gallon by 2015, five years ahead of government requirements.

Available photo material includes still images of Hyundai Blue Drive Chassis, Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle and HED-5 i-Mode unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

… notes from The EDJE