Hyundai looks into the E-SUV future with Seven
The Korean automobile manufacturer Hyundai has unveiled its battery-electric SUV concept vehicle Seven as announced at AutoMobility in Los Angeles. The electric SUV study will be on display at the Hyundai stand in the LA Convention Center from November 19th to 28th – alongside other innovative Hyundai vehicles like the E-CUV IONIQ 5 and the fuel cell truck XCIENT Fuel Cell.
Following the 45 concept presented at IAA 2019 and the PROPHECY study introduced last year, the SEVEN opens a new chapter for Hyundai's sub-brand IONIQ. "The SEVEN demonstrates our creative vision and the progressive technical development for the future of electrified mobility," said Jose Munoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, during the presentation.
The new E-GMP platform as a technical basis
As a technical basis, Hyundai's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) is used, which is explicitly designed for battery-electric vehicles. With this, the SEVEN is expected to offer a range of more than 480 kilometers and short charging times. At a 350-kilowatt fast charging station, for example, the E-SUV can be charged from ten to 80 percent in about 20 minutes.
Clear Break with the Design of Combustion SUVs
The essential visible features of the new platform are the long wheelbase and the flat floor – together they offer numerous advantages for the design of the vehicle. The particularly long wheelbase of 3.20 meters and the unique interior design allow the model to offer better space than any other Hyundai vehicle before, according to the promise.
Furthermore, the aerodynamic silhouette of the concept vehicle deviates significantly from that of a typical SUV. In addition to the long wheelbase, the low flank of the hood and the streamlined, curved roofline also emphasize the clear break with traditional design norms from the era of combustion engine vehicles. The wheels integrate so-called "Active Air Flaps" that automatically extend or retract – depending on whether optimal brake cooling or reduced air resistance is needed.
Pixel Design and New Freedoms in the Interior
The design incorporates the "Parametric Pixels" in the headlights, which run like a red thread through the optics of the electric concept. This ensures a high level of recognition even in the dark. When the driver opens the vehicle, they are greeted with a light sequence.
The flat floor allows Hyundai to move away from the traditional row seating arrangement, resulting in a more open and flexible interior. The rear doors open oppositely and do not require a B-pillar. This creates a generous access to the interior, which impresses with its high-quality lounge atmosphere.
Steering, Braking, Accelerating with the Control Stick
The driver's seat includes a control stick, allowing the driver to steer, brake, and accelerate without a conventional steering wheel and pedals. When the stick is not needed, it automatically retracts and is no longer visible. The tidy cockpit and integrated screens support the lounge character of the interior, as do the swivel seats and a curved bench constructed at an angle.
The interior contains a sliding console along with specially designed fixtures and a multifunctional 27-inch display called the Smart Hub. When the Smart Hub and the front seats are connected to the rear bench, the e-SUV transforms into a mobile living room. The ambient lighting integrated into the door panels creates a cozy atmosphere, while the built-in mini fridge provides refreshing drinks, and special cleaning compartments clean the passengers' shoes. A screen ("Vision-Roof") is integrated into the roof of the electric study, on which different contents can be displayed for maximum relaxation or entertainment.
The concept relies on various environmentally friendly materials and offers segment-leading hygiene functions, such as the "Hygiene Airflow System" and a UVC sterilizer that uses UVC radiation (ultraviolet germicidal radiation) to create germ-free surfaces. In addition, the Seven uses bio-paints and recycled, eco-friendly materials like bamboo wood and bio-resin. The extensive use of copper and textiles with antibacterial properties ensures that all surfaces remain as germ-free as possible.
Airflows Like in a Passenger Aircraft
The "Hygiene Airflow System" is modeled after the sophisticated ventilation management in passenger aircraft. In vertical mode, the air is channeled into the interior through special inlets in the roof rail. It then flows from top to bottom and is led out again through vents behind the rear wheels. In horizontal mode, the air flows from the dashboard to the rear vents.
The system operates continuously, regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion. This reduces the transmission of bacteria or pathogens between passengers, and the airflows surrounding the front and rear occupants are isolated from each other.
Disinfection with UVC Rays
The UVC sterilization automatically activates as soon as the vehicle is parked, and the passengers exit. During this process, the entire interior is cleared of bacteria and viruses using UVC rays. Additionally, the e-SUV provides disinfecting storage compartments for hygienically depositing personal items.
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