Recently, Hyundai launched the Sonata Hybrid with the world’s first Active Shift Control (ASC) technology and a Solar roof system. The new-gen Sonata hybrid also boasts of a new exclusive design with enhanced dynamic elements, as it is equipped with a unique cross-hole cascading grille, a rear spoiler, and a set of alloy wheels which not only make the car look eco-friendly but also provide fine-tuned aerodynamics for maximum driving efficiency. The Solar roof system on the Sonata Hybrid not only helps recharge the battery but also prevents unnecessary battery discharge. With about 6 hours of daily charging, this eco-friendly and efficient roof system is expected to provide an extra travel distance of around 1,300kms annually.
The new Sonata Hybrid is also equipped with the world’s first ASC (Active Shift Control) technology to improve the dynamic driving experience and enhance the fuel economy of the vehicle. ASC applies new control logic software to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU), which then controls the electric motor to align the rotational speeds of the engine and transmission, ultimately reducing gear shift time by about 30%. With this perfect engine and electric motor synchronization, ASC not only enhances the hybrid vehicle’s acceleration performance and fuel economy but also improves the durability of the transmission by minimizing friction during gear shifts.
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Mechanically, the Sonata Hybrid gets the Smartstream G2.0 GDi HEV engine paired with a 6-speed hybrid transmission. This engine is capable of producing around 152 PS of power and about 188 Nm of peak torque, while the vehicle’s electric motor delivers a power output of 51 HP and maximum torque of 205 Nm. When combined, the hybrid system delivers a total power output of more than 200 PS and a combined fuel economy of 20.1km/l.
Some of the other features present in the Sonata Hybrid are:
Digital Key
The new Sonata supports a ‘Digital Key’ function via a dedicated smartphone app. This software application utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which exhibits a high level of security. The NFC wireless data communication takes place only when the device and the reader are placed several centimetres apart. Hyundai’s Digital Key can also control selected vehicle systems remotely via smartphone. Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication, users can lock and unlock the vehicle, activate the alarm and even start the engine and air-conditioning system in the car.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
The new-gen hybrid Sonata is also fitted with, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) which is capable of pedestrian detection, an advanced active safety feature that alerts drivers during emergency situations, and autonomously applies the brake when required. The FCA system works using the front radar and front view camera sensors to operate in three stages. Initially, the system warns the driver visually and acoustically, as it assesses the nature of the collision danger and can apply increasing amounts of braking force to avoid a collision or minimize damage when a collision is unavoidable. The system is only activated when a vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist is sensed in front of the car.
Lane Follow Assist
The Lane Follow Assist automatically adjusts the vehicle’s steering wheel to help keep the vehicle centred in its lane of travel. The LFA system can also keep the vehicle centred at speeds between 0 and 145 kilometres per hour on both highways and city streets.
