First Sketch: Hyundai i-Flow Concept


As Hyundai continues to branch out into new segments, its European operation, which thus far has focused primarily on small cars, is debuting the i-flow concept in Geneva to take on Europe's larger D-segment.

The i-flow is the latest concept to wear Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language and the large D-segment sedan wears it well. Hailing from Hyundai's European Design Headquarters in Russelsheim, Germany, the i-flow incorporates lightweight materials and solar cells from supplier BASF meant to reduce weight and increase energy efficiency.


Beyond that, Hyundai won't say much about the concept other than that it hints at a future production car. We'll learn more when the concept debuts at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show on March 2 and 3, so stay tuned for our complete show coverage. We might even learn why, despite the company's "i-" naming convention in Europe and the car's flowing design, anyone thought "i-flow" was a good idea for a name, as the connotations can be less than flattering.