Hyundai
Motor has unveiled Intrado, its vision of how cars will meet future mobility
needs. Far more than a styling exercise, Intrado demonstrates Hyundai’s belief
that advanced vehicle technologies and intelligent design can combine to engage
more effectively with driver and passengers.
Set
to be revealed to the public at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, Intrado has
resulted from fresh consideration of what consumers will need and expect of
their cars in the near future: cars that are easy to use, intuitive to interact
with, and readily adaptable to the varying demands of their busy, active
lifestyles.
Intrado
takes its name from the underside of an aircraft’s wing – the area that creates
lift. The car’s advanced materials and technologies also draw inspiration from
aircraft, such as the removal of all unnecessary weight, logical solutions to
complex challenges, inspired by a purity of purpose, and a highly efficient
powertrain.
The
exterior of Intrado presents a progressive interpretation of Hyundai’s
established fluidic sculpture form language. The vehicle’s distinctive shape is
dictated by the need to be aerodynamically efficient; it is free of unnecessary
adornments and features minimal detailing. The body panels are made of advanced
super lightweight steel from Hyundai Motor’s steel plant.
The
interior of Intrado is defined by a focus on usability and adaptability, and
draws attention to its advanced materials and radical construction to deliver
the kind of functional beauty typically seen on high-end mountain bikes. The
seals of opening panels shut directly against the central carbon frame,
showcasing the carbon fibre whenever doors, hood or trunk are opened.
Components that are usually concealed are highlighted, including the
‘see-through’ air vents and exposed frame onto which the seats clip directly.
The use of bright ‘Beaufort Orange’ contrasts with the exposed carbon fibre,
reflecting the car’s active brief and mirroring its restrained exterior
detailing.
The
super-lightweight structure of Intrado demonstrates Hyundai’s desire to produce
lighter, stronger cars that are even better to drive and simpler to repair. The
central carbon frame structure is constructed using new, patent-pending
manufacturing and joining techniques that together have the potential to change
the way cars are made. The strength and rigidity of this central structure also
allow body panels to be constructed from any material, giving designers greater
flexibility and aiding repairability. Lightweight steel impact structures
further enhance crash performance and repair times.
Intrado
is powered by a next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain that utilises a
Li-ion 36 kWh battery. Refuelled in just a few minutes, Intrado has a range of
up to 600 kilometres and emits only water. In addition to improved performance
and increased range, Intrado promises more responsive and agile driving
dynamics, thanks to the reduced weight and greater efficiency of its
powertrain.