Keema News

The 2010 Geneva Motor Show sees Hyundai Motor Company reveal its latest line up of Blue Drive models, led by the dramatic i-flow concept vehicle which carries forward the companys evocative new design architecture language, fluidic sculpture.

i-flows dynamic, elegant lines not only portray a futuristic silhouette, but also contribute to exceptional aerodynamics. Sporting intentions are emphasised through radical ideas, such as the arch-like roofline and streamlined front, which are supported by innovative active aero elements, such as the adaptive front spoiler and side rocker blades. A boat-tail shape and kick-up lines force the airflow to separate at the rear of the vehicle, leading to an impressive aerodynamic drag coefficient of just 0.25 Cd.

The fluidic forms of the exterior are echoed in i-flows cabin, where continuous lines sweep from the dashboard, through the doors to the open storage area at the rear. The seats were developed in conjunction with BASF using advanced stress analysis. Steron, (a BASF material), gives seats a highly-resilient quality, excellent breathability and a high-tech touch. The upper dashboard is treated with BASFs Elastoskin, a sprayed skin which gives a sophisticated, shimmering finish. Finally, the cockpits main interface centres on an expansive contoured screen, which recognises not only touch, but also gestural inputs along its fascia-wide display.

Hyundais first diesel-electric hybrid powertrain integrates a new U2 1.7-litre two-stage turbocharged engine and the companys Lithium Ion-Polymer battery technology provides an efficient and advanced combination, enhanced by a six-speed, dual-clutch transmission. In addition the i-flow incorporates numerous new technologies - including the use of innovative lightweight materials, solar cells, energy conservation and harvesting techniques as well as excellent aerodynamics - all assisting in weight reduction and efficiency improvements which reduce the cars CO2 output to an extraordinary 85g/km and fuel consumption to just 3L/100km.

The ix35 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) is another exciting model on display and the latest addition to the Hyundai Blue Drive line-up of eco-focused vehicles. ix35 FCEV moves Hyundai closer to the commercialisation of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, and incorporates several important innovations including the adoption of metallic separators (bipolar plates) in the fuel cell stack, and the use of 21kW LiPoly electrical storage batteries (already in mass production) which dramatically reduce cost and simplify the fuel cell manufacturing process.

Advances in modularisation reduce the time required in the final assembly process, and this combined with the Introduction of induction motors instead of permanent magnet-type motors assist greatly in achieving cost efficiencies and improving production scalability making FCEVs more economically feasible. By 2012, Hyundai plans to begin series manufacture of FCEVs for delivery to fleet customers in South Korea.

Other Blue Drive models on display include i10 blue, i20 blue and i30 blue, all offering sub-100g/km range CO2 emission levels, driving the company towards its target of global automotive leadership in environmentally-sensitive technologies.

Football fever hit Sydney last weekend as the 2010 FIFA World Cup partner Hyundai unveils the Australian Goodwill Ball. Making a dramatic flyover across Sydney Harbour today, the Goodwill Ball will draw supporter attention skyward as it cruises past the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge en-route to Bondi Beach via The Heads, before returning to Farm Cove.

The 4m diameter football, one of 32 such Goodwill balls around the world representing the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals qualifying nations, will commence an intensive Australian road show taking in major cities and regional hubs in the lead up to the tournament.

Over 10,000 supporter signatures and messages of goodwill are expected to be collected on the ball including those from prominent Australians, country Ambassadors, FIFA representatives, government officials and of course a legion of Qantas Socceroos supporters and well-wishers.

The Goodwill Ball will make an appearance at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday March 3rd during the Qantas Socceroos game against Indonesia, before touring the nation and visiting NSW, VIC, Perth, Gold Coast and Adelaide including the Hyundai A-League Grand Final on March 20th, and a final appearance at the Qantas Socceroos farewell game in Melbourne in late May.

All 32 Goodwill Balls will end their journey in South Africa in May, just before the 2010 FIFA World Cup kicks off. The balls will then follow their teams and the messages will be on display at Group Stage matches.

Australia is a true sporting nation and we are passionate about supporting our teams in international competition, said Oliver Mann, Hyundai Motor Company Australias Marketing Director. The Hyundai Goodwill Ball Tour is a fantastic opportunity for Aussies around the country to be a part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup magic, and to show our team how much we support them.

The Goodwill Ball lifts off from Farm Cove at around 10.00 a.m., passing over Bondi at around 11.00 a.m. and returning to Farm Cove at around 12.00 p.m.

• All-new ix35 takes Hyundai into the heart of the growing compact SUV segment.
• A powerful stance with sophisticated surfaces.

Refined, sporty and practical.

Inspired by the concept of an urban nomad, new ix35 is a sleek crossover with athletic proportions, featuring advanced weight-saving technology, eco-efficient power trains, class- leading safety equipment, and outstanding value for money.

Designed at Hyundai's Design Centre Europe at Russelsheim in Germany, new ix35 symbolises the evolution of the brand's exterior and interior design, through the introduction of 'Fluidic Sculpture', an architectural language which will be embodied in future models from Hyundai Motor Company.
New ix35 is available in three trim levels, Active, Elite and top of the range Highlander. With a wide choice of engines and transmissions plus a range of premium features including rear camera, panorama glass roof and full iPod integration, new ix35 brings 'designer' style and luxury to the compact SUV segment.

Design

Design philosophy
Starting with a clean slate, Hyundai's development team moved away from the two-box off-roader look in favour of a sleeker, more refined profile while simultaneously achieving a roomier cabin, extra storage capacity and excellent fuel economy.

'Fluidic Sculpture' symbolises the flow of water. Clearly contoured surfaces are delineated by defined, naturally graduating lines. A subtle yet powerful double 'Z' form emerges from the body. The concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile extending rearward, wrapping around into the rear bumper.

Exterior
Developed as an urban cruiser, ix35 is compact and agile for life in the city, yet tough and versatile for out-of-town travel.

The hexagonal grille previewed on the 'ix-onic' concept car moves into mass production on the ix35, a defining look which will serve to unify the family of future Hyundai products. The grille is body colour on the entry level Active model and finished with chrome highlights and complimented by chrome door handles on Elite and Highlander models. Swept back headlights, a lower air intake and heavily inclined A-pillar add to the sporting appearance, whilst prominent wheel arches impart a confident stance.

The rear quarter glass, swooping rear lamps, oversized bumper and sloping tailgate enhance the sporting look. The integrated rear spoiler further reduces fuel consumption.

All model variants are easily identified by their wheel designs - 17 inch alloy on Elite and 18 inch on Highlander - adding to the range's individuality.

Interior
Inside ix35's cabin, a definitive 'X' zone characterises the centre fascia with black and metallic finishes throughout the interior. On ix35 Elite and Highlander models, convenience and practicality are enhanced with the implementation of the push button start function and proximity smart key allowing the car to be opened at the touch of a button located on the front doors and tailgate.

On all model variants, the four spoke steering wheel incorporates controls for management of audio and cruise control systems. All instruments and gauges are backlit in Hyundai's signature blue colour.

Acceleration is via a modern organ-type pedal designed to offer high levels of comfort and sensitivity, by allowing the entire foot to rest on the surface of the pedal at all times and under all rates of acceleration.

Active and Elite models come with air conditioning, whilst Highlander models are equipped with dual-zone climate control featuring a cluster ionizer that improves air quality in the cabin.

The Highlander's panoramic glass roof maximises light ingress and adds to the sense of spaciousness. An adjustable roll blind can be fixed to ensure 100 percent light block whenever necessary. The front glass opens electrically, while rear passengers can enjoy panoramic vision through the fixed glass overhead.

Seating
Across the range, the driver's seat offers six-way electric adjustment plus electric lumbar support, allowing taller drivers to find a comfortable driving position. Added seating conveniences include second row armrest with dual cup holders and multiple seating layout configurations.

Active models feature high quality cloth upholstery, Elite models are finished in a combination of leather and cloth and the top of the range Highlander features all-leather seating.

Storage
ix35 has 19 different storage options, including:

• Console storage tray
• Glove box
• Overhead sunglass storage
• Armrest storage compartment
• Two front seat drink holders
• Two rear centre armrest drink holders
• Four bottle holders - one in each door
• Four map pockets - one in each door
• Two seatback pockets

Inclusions such as a standard luggage screen cover provide privacy and security for valuables in the cargo area, while a luggage net (standard on Elite and Highlander models), secures loose items.

Performance
There are three engine variants across the model line-up. ix35 Active - 2.0-litre petrol 2WD (five-speed manual and six-speed auto), ix35 Elite - 2.4-litre petrol AWD (six-speed auto), ix35 Elite - 2.0-litre R-series turbo-Diesel AWD (six-speed auto) and ix35 Highlander - 2.0-litre R-series turbo-Diesel AWD (six-speed auto).

A full-time electronic AWD system automatically controls power distribution in ix35 AWD model variants. The AWD ECU detects varying road surface conditions and driving inputs, distributing optimum driving force between the front and rear wheels.

The six-speed auto uses a step gate pattern to eliminate miss shifting, while leather shift knob improves look and feel on Elite and Highlander trims.

Like the i30, i30cw, Santa Fe R-series and iLoad, the suspension of ix35, has been developed and optimised for Australia's unique road conditions.

The ix35's front suspension has a 25mm hollow stabiliser bar to save weight. The rear suspension has an 18mm solid stabiliser bar.

Active aerodynamics are realised through intelligent windshield design, integrated rear spoiler, engine undercover and wheel deflectors.

Powertrain highlights include:

Theta-II
Hyundai engineers have taken the 'World Engine', the largest petrol engine programme in the world, and created the lighter, more fuel efficient and cleaner-running Theta-II.

ix35 Active models features the 2.0-litre Theta-II which has shed over 10kg from its previous iteration. For better fuel efficiency and reduced NOx emissions, the 2.0-litre Theta-II comes with Dual CVVT (exhaust camshaft phasers)and a two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) which enables switching between long and short intake manifold resulting in an across-the-board performance increase. To reduce internal friction, engineers applied a Diamond-like-coating (DLC) to the top surface of the valve tappets resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Engineers also expended considerable time and effort optimising the oil pump pressure to achieve an ideal balance between durability and fuel economy.

ix35 Elite models are available with the Theta II 2.4-litre DOHC inline four-cylinder engine. The 2.4 Theta II engine delivers about the same amount of power and acceleration as its predecessor's V6 engine with 16 percent better fuel economy than the old four-cylinder engine.

R-series turbo-Diesel engine
Developed by a

MELBOURNE, 6.00pm EST, 3 February 2010- Sony Computer Entertainment Australia has

announced 25 year old student, Daniel Holland as the Australian winner of Nissan GT Academy 2010.

This is the first time an Australian will be represented in the competition which will see him go headto-

head against other finalists across 17 countries.

From the 16 Australian finalists flown in from around the

nation today, only Daniel Holland will take his

PlayStation3 (PS3TM) lounge room racing dream

literally to the race track. He will now be participating in

the international stage of Nissan GT Academy at

Silverstone, UK, undergoing a rigorous training program

against other competitors for the chance to become a

real world race car driver.

After recording the best results today, the culmination of a series of challenges on Gran Turismo for

PS3, Daniel will travel to Silverstone at the end of February 2010, with the chance to live his race car

driving dream.

Australia holds promise to be a tough competitor in the next stage. Daniel Holland consistently

recorded top ranking lap times on the international leader board during the online round of the

competition, to secure his place in today's national final.

"I'm stoked! I can't believe that my passion for Gran Turismo has provided me with this opportunity.

The fact that I'm now going Silverstone at the end of this month as the first Australian to take part in

Nissan GT Academy, blows my mind. It's been a phenomenal day with some worthy challengers, but

right now, I just can't wait to get to the UK to compete internationally!" said Holland.

Swedish duo Pelle Wallentheim and Olle Ohlsson driving the second Garland

MotorSports Isuzu D-MAX ute competing in the 2010 Dakar Rally have retired from

the event just two days from the finish of the 16-day enduro.

They started the 12th stage of the event 51st on the road after a disappointing day

yesterday but rapidly made up ground to 23rd after just 21km of competition.

However around the 40km mark, their special turbo malfunctioned, relegating the crew to

the side of the track until other competitors had passed and they could return safely to a

checkpoint.

"We had been going so well and then this happened," said Wallentheim, admitting he was

feeling quite empty.

"It was a new turbo. The team changed it on the rest day over the weekend as part of a

planned maintenance schedule for the second part of the event, so it shouldn't have been

a problem, but we don't know what has caused it. We're just devastated - so much hard

work for all of us and no result."

Wallentheim and Ohlsson returned to the 21km checkpoint, which was where the special

stage met the local highway. Several members of the Garland MotorSports team were

there, taking charge of the stricken D-MAX to get it through to the overnight camp.

It was heartbreaking news for the crew after a solid year of work, especially as team boss

Bruce Garland and co-driver Harry Suzuki had to retire from the competition this time last

week when a freak accident smashed their radiator.

"Obviously we'll be trying to work out what happened with the turbo," said Garland,

"because we've never had a problem like this before.

"A few days back the guys got a lot of dust through the engine. That may have had

something to do with it, but I honestly don't know, and won't know, until we've had a

chance to strip it down.

"For now, we'll just clean up, pack up and head back to Buenos Aires. It's beyond

disappointing, given how well we did last year, but this is Dakar and things happen. It's a

cruel sport and this is the toughest event of them all."

Dakar day 14, was a big one, 790km in total, including the special (competition) stage 12

that was 470km long. Just 59 cars of the 134 that started the event in Buenos Aires (of a

total field of 362) started today.

At stage end, it was the VW Race-Touareg trio at the top of the order: Carlos Sainz,

Nasser Al-Attiyah and Mark Miller. The same trio are leading the event, with two stages

remaining before the official finish in Buenos Aires on January 17. Of last year's podium,

Giniel De Villiers, Miller and Robby Gordon (Hummer H3 RWD), defending champion De

Villiers is seventh and Gordon eighth.

Background

The Garland MotorSports/Tubus Racing teams have contested the 2010 Dakar in Isuzu

D-MAX 4x4 utes, prepared in Garland's outer Sydney backyard although Wallentheim's

was completed in Sweden to the Garland template. The standard 3.0-litre turbo-diesel

production engine was slightly tweaked for better performance, especially for the high

altitude sections of the event. It had maximum torque of 600Nm - up 66 per cent on the

standard roadgoing D-MAX ute - and peak power of 180kW, which is 50 per cent more

than the standard vehicle. They were competing in Class T1.2, which is modified 4WD

diesel.

In the 2009 Dakar, the Swedes finished 44th outright. Their Australian colleagues, Garland

and Suzuki, were the surprise performers, finishing 11th outright and were first 'amateur'

(non-factory team) home. Their D-MAX was the top placed diesel ute and first production

chassis car.

The Dakar Rally is the world's premier off-road endurance competition. First staged in

1979, it was traditionally run in Europe and Africa, but moved to South America in 2009

because of safety concerns. The 2008 race - the last to be held in Africa - was cancelled

on the eve of the start after the deaths of four French tourists. Their killers had links to the

Al Qaeda terrorist network and threatened Dakar Rally organisers and competitors.

Coverage

SBS is the official telecaster of Dakar 2010 and there are regular updates on the event

also on the SBS website (www.sbs.com.au/dakar); SBS ONE is screening daily highlights

daily at 6pm AEDT until Monday, January 18 and then a one-hour Dakar review from

11am to 12noon on Sunday, January 24.