Hyundai announces future powertrain strategy

HYUNDAI revealed its future engine and transmission plans at the company’s annual international powertrain conference last week.

The Korean automotive giant highlighted its plan to continue the global trend of downsizing engines at the conference, which had the theme ‘Convergence of Human, Environment, and Powertrain.’Hyundai confirmed further development of its Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (T-GDI) engines, saying they will improve the technology to develop “small, yet strong” engines.

The 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre versions feature in some current Hyundai models, including the recently released Veloster SR Turbo.

Further development of its diesel engine technology was also flagged, with plans to expand the diesel line-up using the technology of the existing U, R and S engines.

Some of the engines on display at the conference included Kappa 1.0-litre TCI engine, Kappa 1.2-litre T-GDI engine, Gamma 1.6-litre T-GDI engine, Nu 2.0-litre CVVL engine, Theta 2.0-litre T-GDI engine, U2 1.1-litre WGT diesel engine and Euro 6 R 2.0-litre diesel engine.

Hyundai has reduced the weight of the tiny 1.0-litre Kappa Turbocharged Intercooler (TCI) engine through the use of an aluminium cylinder block and plastic intake manifold to improve efficiency.

A number of other technologies were employed to maximise fuel economy for the 78kW 1.0-litre engine, including a 12-valve DOHC cylinder head, integrated turbocharger and offset crankshaft.

Transmission technology was also on the agenda at the conference, with the Korean car-maker confirming development of lightweight, more fuel-efficient transmissions and new units for future premium models.

Hyundai also revealed plans to offer more customised powertrains to cater to local conditions in a bid to increase global sales, including increasing the ratio of T-GDI-engined models in China and the US.

Countries that experience extreme weather conditions will also be catered for, with Hyundai saying that they “will provide engines that deliver sustainable performance regardless of changes in temperature”.

The two-day conference saw a gathering of about 1000 powertrain experts and academics from companies including Bosch, Continental, Delphi, Magna Powertrain and Denso.