Blue Hyundai leads Korean green drive

Hyundai will show an all-new concept car at the Seoul Motor Show next month (April 2009) and it's set to showcase some fascinating eco-technology. Called the BLUE-WILL, the concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain combining a lithium-ion battery pack and a 1.6-litre petrol engine, but for once it's what's on the outside that really matters in this case.

That's because the BLUE-WILL has headlamps made from recycled soft drink bottles and bio-plastics. Parts of the interior and the engine cover are made from plant extract materials too and are fully biodegradable. The panoramic sunroof also contains see through solar cells that can power on-board electrical items. Much like the Eco Elise concept, which employed natural hemp for much of its interior and exterior, the Hyundai doesn't just focus on the tailpipe emissions, but on the full life cycle of the car.

Meanwhile, fellow Korean maker Kia will unveil its vision for greener future in Seoul in the form of the Forte LPI Hybrid, which can run on LPG and electricity. The car also launches Kia's eco brand, 'Eco Dynamics', which will be used on all manner of eco-friendly Kias in future - including a hydrogen fuel cell car in 2012. When it goes on sale later this year in Korea, the Forte will be the first production car to use lithium polymer batteries, which are smaller and lighter than lithium-ion cells and thus will free up more cabin space.

Mark Nichol