Hyundai Motor Group is shifting attention to hybrid technology, unveiling a next-generation hybrid system (Image provided by Hyundai Motor)
SEOUL, April 20 (Korea Bizwire) — As electric vehicle (EV) demand shows signs of plateauing, Hyundai Motor Group is shifting attention to hybrid technology, unveiling a next-generation hybrid system featuring a dual-motor transmission — a first for the company — to bridge performance, efficiency, and adaptability across its vehicle lineup.
The new system, introduced at the Tech Day event on April 10 in Seoul under the theme “Beyond Hybrid: A Perfect Harmony of Power and Efficiency,” is built around a redesigned transmission housing two electric motors — one for driving and regenerative braking (P2) and a newly added P1 motor for engine starting, power generation, and torque assistance.
Unlike conventional hybrid architectures, the P1+P2 parallel system enables better energy transfer by minimizing friction loss and enhances overall vehicle performance. The integration of the P1 motor also eliminates traditional belt-driven components such as the alternator and air-conditioning compressor, reducing power dispersion and boosting fuel efficiency.
The upgraded transmission can now handle torque up to 46.9 kgf·m, a 25% increase from the previous 37.4 kgf·m, making it suitable for pairing with high-displacement engines while maintaining the same compact size — allowing deployment across small to mid-to-large-sized vehicles.
The system debuts with a newly developed 2.5-liter turbo hybrid engine, which achieves a best-in-class fuel efficiency of 14.1 km/L in large SUVs, alongside a maximum system output of 334 horsepower and 46.9 kgf·m torque. This represents a 45% improvement in fuel economy and a 19% and 9% increase in power and torque, respectively, over comparable models.
Hyundai Motor Group is shifting attention to hybrid technology, unveiling a next-generation hybrid system (Image provided by Hyundai Motor)
Hyundai has also refined its hybrid driving experience. The added P1 motor improves shift smoothness in the Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) logic and reduces engine noise and vibration during charging while stationary. Enhancements extend to electric-only driving modes, reducing perceptible transitions when the gasoline engine engages.
In addition, the company is integrating advanced electrification features into its new hybrid models, including:
-
e-AWD: An electronic all-wheel-drive system adding a P4 motor to the rear axle for improved traction and responsiveness.
-
e-VMC 2.0: An upgraded vehicle motion control system for enhanced ride comfort and stability.
-
Stay Mode: Enables full operation of in-vehicle amenities without starting the engine.
-
V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): Delivers up to 3.6 kW of power for external electronic devices.
-
Smart Regenerative Braking (HPC): Optimizes battery charging based on route and road conditions.
With this rollout, Hyundai expands its hybrid powertrain offerings from three to five, covering a broad output range from just over 100 to mid-300 horsepower.
The 2.5L turbo hybrid engine will first be installed in the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, with a rear-wheel-drive version set to debut in 2026 for application in Genesis’ key models, marking a significant push into high-performance hybridization.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
