Hyundai Koreans are one step ahead of European manufacturers in terms of electric cars. They aim to be the manufacturer that sells more electric cars sell in Europe, something that is not far-fetched with very interesting models such as the electric versions of the Kona or the Kia Niro. And what will come next? Well, more technology and new designs, which this Hyundai Prophecy Concept anticipates.
The name “Prophecy” already indicates that it is an advance. Of what? Well, the new design language of the brand, which they call “sensual sportsmanship” Of course it is. And it reminds us a lot of the Porsche lines – something that is not bad – with a streamlined side profile, flush headlights, aileron or rear, a kind of miscegenation between a 911 and a Ursaab.
This aerodynamic profile contrasts with the more angular Concept 45 we met in September or the Vision T, although they share LED lighting. The commitment to sustainability is total. In addition to its electric motor, it is committed to ecological materials and in the press release they indicate that it has a technology that distributes purified air inside the cabin and outside it, where it circulates. Is this a car with negative emissions? That will have to be seen.
For the rest, we like those wide curves, the huge long wheelbase with short overhangs or the propeller-shaped aerodynamic wheels that redirect the air to the side. The rear wing for promises greater stability at high speeds.
The interior reserves a surprise: the steering wheel is replaced by joysticks. Although Hyundai is committed to autonomous driving, one of these controls is mounted on the door and the other on the raised center console, and both can turn both ways to control the direction if the manual driving mode is chosen. It would be necessary to get used to it, but with this solution the visibility through the windshield is total and also of the screen that is in all the dashboard.
Hyundai says that the interior of the concept, with four seats, is inspired by the flow of water from nature. The colors and materials of the interior and low intensity ambient lighting help to passengers to disconnect. On the other hand, softly modulated colors favor rest and relaxation.
As it is a design exercise, the brand does not offer engine, battery or performance specifications. Will we see it in the streets? There will be details that yes, such as pixelated LED panels, a progressive lighting technology that we see in headlights, rear optics and even the spoiler, as the brand ensures that they will be a characteristic design element in future Hyundai models. The brand intends to have 44 electrified vehicles by 2025, with sales of 670,000 vehicles each year thereafter. And perhaps some of them resemble, even if slightly the Hyundai Prophecy.