Hyundai
Motor Company unveiled its new concept EV, ‘Prophecy’. The visionary concept
clearly expresses Hyundai’s latest design philosophy, Sensuous Sportiness,
expanding on the era-defining example set by last year’s “45”concept EV that
stripped away complexity in favor of clean lines and minimalistic structures.
Prophecy
follows suit with an iconic silhouette of perfect proportions that have been
inspired by an aerodynamic design. Leveraging the extended wheelbase and
shorter overhang, Hyundai’s designers have achieved the Ultimate Automotive
Form, thanks to a new EV architecture defined by pristine surfaces and pure
volume in combination with aesthetic harmony and functionality.
The
propeller shapes embedded in the vehicle’s wheel not only affirm this trait,
they also compel air to be drawn in and flow down the side of the body like
water over a stone. The integrated rear spoiler complements this effect by
harnessing downforce that aids vehicle stability when travelling at speed.
The
transparent acrylic material provides a clear view of the functional components
inside. This intentional design feature is integrated in the spoiler, headlamp
and in the camera monitoring system (CMS), calling attention to the functional
beauty of the components.
The
pixel lamplights, which were first seen on the ‘45’, take a step forward. This
progressive lighting technology is integrated into the headlamp, tail lamp and
spoiler, calling to mind the abundant energy contained in the vehicle’s battery
cells. Pixelated lamps will be carried forward as a signature design element in
future Hyundai models.
Prophecy’s
identity as an EV extends to the underbody. A wide air intake that is installed
below the bumper takes fresh air to cool the batteries more effectively,
delivering an even more eco-friendly EV to customers.
The
interior of Prophecy underlines the advantages of using the stretched cabin of
an EV platform. Instead of a conventional automotive interior, a lifestyle
space of refinement and comfort provides customers with a warm welcome.
Instead
of a steering wheel, joysticks provide a completely new yet reassuringly
familiar and intuitive driving experience. By offering two joysticks that can
pivot left and right, one in the centre console and another on the door trim,
drivers are able to control the vehicle from a position of comfort.
Furthermore, drivers have access to a wide variety of functions, which can be
selected via the joysticks’ integrated buttons. Ultimately, this human-machine
interface enhances passenger safety.
Design
changes that have been enabled by the use of joysticks offer more visual
freedom to passengers. In Relax mode, passengers have virtually zero visual
obstacles. In a comfortably reclined position, all that the passengers see is
the horizontal pillar-to-pillar display and the wing-shaped dashboard. In this
mode, the dashboard swivels, allowing for a spacious interior and seat position
from which passengers are able to enjoy content shown on the display.