The automotive world has been eagerly awaiting the unveiling of Hyundai Motor Group’s next-generation hybrid technologies. The company has finally opened its books, revealing a plethora of innovative solutions that promise to revolutionize the world of hybrid vehicles. At the heart of this technological leap lies a cutting-edge transmission system, which has been designed to work in perfect harmony with various engines to deliver unparalleled performance and efficiency. At the core of Hyundai’s new transmission is a P1 and P2 motor system. The P1 motor, also known as a starter-generator, plays a crucial role in assisting the vehicle’s propulsion and regenerative braking. On the other hand, the P2 motor helps to boost the vehicle’s acceleration and efficiency. This remarkable system features a novel approach to transmission, where the P1 and P2 motors work in tandem to provide smoother and faster shifting. This, in turn, has a direct impact on the overall driving experience, offering a more refined and responsive ride. But that’s not all. Hyundai has also confirmed a new version of its existing 1.6 turbo hybrid setup, which will be paired with the company’s latest transmission system. This new 1.6 turbo hybrid setup will boast increased peak torque, from 367Nm to 380Nm, to deliver improved acceleration and responsiveness. Moreover, this new setup will provide a 4.0 per cent fuel-efficiency improvement in a mid-size SUV, such as the Tucson.
- Hyundai’s next-generation hybrid technologies will debut in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade large SUV
- The new transmission system will feature two integrated motors, which can be “paired flexibly” with various engines to optimize performance and efficiency
- The 2.5-litre turbo hybrid powertrain will offer fuel efficiency of 7.1L/100km, which is approximately 45 per cent better than the 2.5T engine without the new hybrid tech
- The Palisade hybrid will have 245kW and 460Nm outputs, representing 19 and 9.0 per cent improvements, respectively, over the non-hybrid version of the same engine
“Typically, internal combustion engines generate power through four strokes: intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust. The 2.5 turbo hybrid system utilises an ‘over-expansion cycle’, intentionally delaying intake valve closure during compression to lower the effective compression ratio of the mixed gas in the cylinder while maintaining a high expansion ratio during the combustion process,” said the company in its media release. “This technique reduces power consumption during mixture compression while maximising energy generated after combustion, significantly enhancing engine efficiency. Additionally, an improved piston design and a significantly expanded triple fuel injection range enhances combustion speed, stabilises combustion, and suppresses detonation, improving engine efficiency further still.”
Hyundai has confirmed that its next-generation hybrid technologies will be rolled out to various models across the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis portfolios. The 2.5 turbo hybrid powertrain will debut in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, while a new version of the 1.6 turbo hybrid setup will be introduced in the 2026 Hyundai Tucson.
In addition to the new hybrid powertrains, Hyundai has also confirmed a range of electric and electrification technologies. Electric All-Wheel Drive (e-AWD) will be available on select models, featuring a ‘P4’ motor that enhances driving performance. Electrification-Vehicle Motion Control (e-VMC 2.0) will also be introduced, utilizing the e-AWD system’s front and rear electric motors to optimize traction, mitigate body roll, and minimize vertical movements over bumps.
Hyundai has also confirmed a new Stay Mode, which allows the use of in-vehicle convenience features, including air-conditioning and multimedia, without starting the engine. This feature is available for up to one hour, provided the battery’s state of charge is between 70 and 80 per cent. Furthermore, the company has introduced a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which enables continuous use of the vehicle’s power outlet while the engine is running or in Stay Mode.
Hyundai’s new HPC system will predict the driving route and road conditions to optimize the level of battery charge for improved fuel efficiency. On the fly, it will select the best driving mode (ie: EV, hybrid, or regenerative braking mode) to suit the conditions.
In a separate announcement, Hyundai has revealed its latest HPC system, which will be integrated with the new Palisade hybrid. This advanced system will enable the vehicle to predict and adapt to changing road conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance.
