Hyundai has officially introduced a new powertrain, which marks a significant breakthrough in the brand's hybrid technology and demonstrates the Koreans' commitment to improving energy efficiency, dynamics and overall driving comfort. This new generation of powertrains is aimed at a wide range of Hyundai and Kia models and has already passed its first test on the flagship Palisade crossover, opening the prospect of further large-scale implementation.
The uniqueness of the new hybrid system lies in the use of two traction electric motors at once. One of them, the P1 motor, performs not only the role of a torque source, but also the functions of a starter-generator. It, together with the main motor P2, is integrated into the housing of the six-speed automatic transmission. This approach achieves several key benefits: increased power, improved fuel efficiency and smoother transmission operation.
According to the manufacturer, the new system, combined with a modernized 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, provides a system power of 334 horsepower and a maximum torque of 460 Nm, which is 19% and 9% more than the current version of the 2.5 T-GDi, respectively. At the same time, fuel consumption has been reduced by almost 45% thanks to new energy-saving principles.
Another engineering solution that significantly improves efficiency is the use of the Atkinson cycle, in which the intake valves close with a delay. This reduces the actual compression, while maintaining the geometric parameters of the cylinders, allowing for improved efficiency without compromising dynamics. If the new powertrain is combined with a smaller 1.6-liter engine, the savings will be smaller - approximately 4%, but the torque will increase from 367 to 380 Nm, which is also a positive development.
Hyundai also introduced a set of auxiliary technologies that complement the new hybrid architecture. In particular, we are talking about the electric all-wheel drive e-AWD, which is combined with the e-VMC 2.0 traction control system. This system provides precise torque control separately for the front and rear electric motors, which has a positive effect on both handling and safety when actively maneuvering or driving on slippery surfaces.
Improvements have also affected the control of body dynamics: the new e-Handling 2.0 system allows for more effective suppression of roll in corners, e-EHA 2.0 provides a more predictable response during emergency avoidance of obstacles, and e-Ride 2.0 reduces vertical body vibrations on bumps, increasing overall passenger comfort. In other words, Hyundai has not just modernized the powertrain, but has created a holistic ecosystem of next-generation active dynamics and safety.
Among other innovations of the new hybrid architecture, it is worth noting the Stay mode, which allows the air conditioning and multimedia system to be powered by the high-voltage battery even when the internal combustion engine is turned off. This is especially useful when stopping, waiting for passengers or camping. The system supports bidirectional charging V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), which allows external devices to be powered directly from the car, and is also equipped with “intelligent“ recuperation, which automatically adapts the level of braking depending on road conditions and driving style.
According to analysts, the appearance of such a full hybrid system will not only be a technological breakthrough for Hyundai and KIA, but will also allow the Korean automobile giant to strengthen its positions in the global market, where the struggle for energy efficiency, dynamics and reduction of harmful emissions is becoming increasingly acute. It is expected that in the near future this power platform will begin to be installed on other models of the concern in various segments - from SUVs to sedans and even minivans, since the flexibility of the architecture allows it to be scaled for different needs and body formats.