The Hyundai Motor Group has introduced a next-generation hybrid powertrain system that, it claims, significantly improves performance and efficiency. Set to be rolled out across Hyundai and Kia models, this new hybrid system will be offered with two petrol engines – a 2.5-litre and a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol – the larger of which debuted on the Palisade SUV. The hybrid powertrain also gets EV-specific tech, such as electric all-wheel drive, V2L capabilities and regenerative braking.
- A new 2.5-litre turbo-hybrid powertrain debuts on the new Palisade
- Improves fuel efficiency by 45 percent, power by 19 percent
- Will power compact and large models across both Kia and Hyundai brands
New Hyundai hybrid powertrain explained
Hybrid system will be producing outputs ranging from low-100hp to mid-300hp
The new hybrid powertrain uses a transmission that integrates two electric motors – one functioning as a starter motor and the other as a traction motor, with the latter also handling regeneration duties. This new transmission system can be coupled with a range of internal combustion engines, delivering power outputs from the low-100hp range to the mid-300hp range. Hyundai says the design of the hybrid system allows for smoother shifts, reduced noise and vibrations, and a more refined driving experience. It can be offered in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter using an additional electric motor on the rear axle.
The hybrid system uses a transmission with two integrated electric motors.
What’s really interesting is that Hyundai has even baked in some EV-specific tech from its E-GMP EV architecture into this new hybrid powertrain. This includes a feature called ‘Stay Mode’, which allows one to operate the air-conditioning and infotainment functions for up to one hour even with the engine off, provided the battery has 70-80 percent charge. It also has vehicle-to-load (V2L) and regenerative braking capabilities. It also gets a new system called Hierarchical Predictive Control (HPC), which predicts the driving route and road conditions, selecting the best driving along the route for improved fuel efficiency.
New hybrid system debuts with 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine
On the flagship Palisade SUV, it produces 334hp and 460Nm
The new hybrid system will first be offered with an all-new 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, and later, it will also be available with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine. The 2.5-litre turbo-hybrid system utilises what Hyundai calls an ‘over-expansion cycle.’ This system intentionally delays the intake valve closure during compression to lower the effective compression ratio of the mixed gas in the cylinder while maintaining a high expansion ratio during combustion. Hyundai claims this technique reduces power consumption and improves efficiency.
The new hybrid powertrain is claimed to also improve gear shifts, noise and vibrations.
The engine also has an improved piston design, better cylinder flow and an expanded triple fuel injection range, all of which further enhance efficiency.
In the Palisade, where this new 2.5-litre turbo-hybrid system will first be implemented, the system produces 334hp and 460Nm of torque and is claimed to deliver a maximum fuel efficiency of 14.1kpl. Compared to a regular 2.5-litre petrol engine, that’s approximately a 45 percent improvement in efficiency, 19 percent in power and 9 percent in peak torque, says Hyundai.
Which cars will be offered with new hybrid powertrain?
Apart from the Palisade, Hyundai will offer the new hybrid powertrain across a range of compact and large vehicles from both the Hyundai and Kia brands. Further down the line, the powertrain will also make its way into Genesis’ luxury models.
Earlier this month, Kia confirmed a new hybrid powertrain for the next-gen Seltos SUV, and it will likely be the aforementioned 1.6-litre turbo-hybrid unit.
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