Hyundai Motor reveals more details about its latest concept EV, ‘Prophecy’

Hyundai Motor has revealed more details of its Prophecy Concept EV. In a new walk-around video, Hyundai Motor Group’s Chief Design Officer Luc Donckerwolke explains some of the key features inside and outside the vehicle.

Prophecy received its digital premiere last month and is inspired by the vintage cars of the 1920s and 30s, with a smooth, coupe-like design. Sweeping curves and smooth lines set it apart from the angular 45, another Hyundai concept car which debuted at the IAA in 2019. However, like 45, it inherits the design language of pixel lights. Its dynamic shape and rear spoiler give it a sporty appearance, and propeller-shaped wheels reduce air resistance. This look is based on Hyundai’s design identity, ‘Sensuous Sportiness.’

Inside, the dark colours and natural materials take you back to nature. This concept is meant to create a completely new type of in-car experience.

Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Design Officer, Hyundai Motor pointed out that “The word ‘sensuous’ integrates the value of more emotion in our designs. ‘Sportiness’ implies dynamics, to be reactive of what’s happening around us. Sensuous Sportiness is not about a new language or philosophy. It’s about a new concept in the creation of our cars.”

Only joysticks, no steering wheel
One of the most unique characteristics of Prophecy is the steering mechanism.

Rather than a steering wheel mounted high on the dashboard in front of the driver, Prophecy is controlled by dual joysticks located left and right from the driver: one on the centre console and the other on the door trim. In combination with a spacious interior, this not only allows for a more comfortable seating position while driving, it also frees up more space on the dashboard for other features. In addition, 90 percent of the vehicle’s functions can be controlled via buttons on the joysticks. This ergonomic setup is known as the Intuitive Human Interface. It has the benefit of increasing passenger safety as well as visual freedom.

Smart Posture Care System
Installing joysticks is not the only way the seating position has become more ergonomic with Prophecy.

The new Smart Posture Care System (SPCS) allows drivers to enjoy an optimised seating position based on their individual physical characteristics. The driver can either adjust the seat manually to fit their preferences, or allow the car to suggest a “smart” seating position for them. In “smart” mode, the driver enters their height, seated height, and weight, and the car automatically adjusts to the driver’s individual physical condition. The SPCS controls the seat, steering wheel, mirror, and Head-Up Display, and is based on medically-verified information.

Relax mode
The infotainment system is integrated into a large screen stretching across the entire front of the vehicle’s interior.

When not driving, the car can be used as an entertainment space by switching into Relax Mode. In Relax Mode, the seats recline and the dashboard swivels upwards, creating the optimal seating position from which to enjoy the content shown on the display. As autonomous driving technology progresses, the potential for vehicles to be used as relaxation spaces will grow in importance.

Unique air filtration system
Not only is Prophecy a zero-emissions electric vehicles – it actually cleans the air. The unique air filtration system with a fine dust sensor is built in to the vehicle.

When particle levels inside the vehicle get too high, the air system activates, taking in fresh air from the outside, filtering it for purity, and circulating the clean air throughout the vehicle. Moreover, Prophecy continues to clean the air, even when it is idling or charging, and even if no one is inside.

When the air inside the vehicle grows stale, fresh air is taken in via intake valves at the front of the vehicle. When no fresh air inside the car is needed, the filtered air is pumped back into the outside world via two outlets at the bottom of the side doors. This system is significantly more energy efficient than a traditional ventilation system.

Electric Global Modular Platform
After 45, Prophecy is the second Hyundai vehicle to be built using the Electric Global Modular Platform or ‘E-GMP’ – Hyundai’s first dedicated EV platform.

A dedicated EV platform opens up a world of possibilities. Electric powertrains are much more compact than their internal-combustion counterparts, meaning there is no need for a wide front hood or a bulky centre console. This allows automotive designers to reclaim the space for passenger use, and to reimagine the range of in-car experiences.

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