History of Hyundai Motor company

This is a timeline of the history of the Hyundai Motor Company:
1947 – Chung Ju-Yung founds the Hyundai Engineering and Construction Company.
1967 – Hyundai Motor Company Established.
1968 – The company’s first model, the Cortina released in co-operation with Ford Motor Company.
1975 – The Pony, the first Korean car released, with styling by Giorgio Giugiaro of Ital Design and powertrain technology provided by Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors.
1976 – Exports begin to Ecuador and soon thereafter to the Benelux countries.
1986 – Hyundai begins to sell cars in the United States, and the Excel was nominated as “Best Product #10″ by Fortune magazine, largely because of affordability.
1988 – Hyundai begins to produce models with its own technology, beginning with the midsize Sonata.
1991 – Succeeds in developing first proprietary gasoline engine, the 4-cylinder Alpha, and transmission, paving way for technological independence.
1996 – Hyundai Motors India Limited established with production plant in Irrungattukatoi near Chennai, India.
1998 – Hyundai begins to overhaul its image in an attempt to establish itself as a world-class brand.
1999 – Chung Ju Yung transfers leadership of Hyundai to his son, Chung Mong Koo. Hyundai heavily invests in the quality, design, manufacturing, and long-term research of its vehicles. Adds a 10-year or 100,000-mile (160,000 km) warranty to cars sold in the United States and launches aggressive marketing campaign.
2004 – Hyundai ranked 2nd in “initial quality” in survey/study by J.D. Power and Associates.
2006 – South Korean government initiates investigation of Chung Mong Koo’s practices as head of the company, suspecting him of corruption. Chung arrested on 28 April, charged for embezzlement of 100 billion won (US$106 million). Hyundai Vice Chairman and CEO, Kim Dong-jin, takes over as head of Hyundai.

Honda CR-Z hybrid

The brochure reveals some of the specifications for this much anticipated new model. The car will have a 1.5 liter V-TEC engine rated at 114 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque and an electric motor providing an additional 13 horsepower and 57 ft-lbs of torque. Both a CVT (continuously varialbe transmission) and a 6 speed manual transmission will be offered. 0 - 60 time is said to be 9.7 seconds.
While those performance numbers are not startling, the package that Honda has created certainly is. For the moment, it ranks as one of the sleekest, sexiest hybrids ever seen. The upgraded aero package from Mugen, Honda's performance division, shown below, is especially tasty.

FOURTEEN GLOBAL LAUNCHES, FORTY REGIONAL LAUNCHES - DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW TO NEW LEVEL

With a line-up of the most famous brands on four wheels scheduled to unveil their latest models, marques and technological marvels to the Middle East region and the world beyond, the scale of the 10th anniversary Dubai International Motor Show is exceeding all expectations.

Running from 16 – 20 December 2009 at the Dubai International Convention Centre (DICEC), the show promises fun, action and entertainment for the whole family.

The cancellation and downscaling of automotive events around the globe in the year, and the decision by a number of premium automotive manufacturers to make Dubai International Motor Show their global launch platform of choice, reaffirms the importance of Dubai and the Middle East region to the motor industry.

Established in 1991, the Dubai International Motor Show has risen above its global counterparts to present an unprecedented 14 global launches, 40 regional debuts and more than 200 new model introductions as it celebrates its 10 anniversary this year.

Among the models making their worldwide debuts at this year’s show include the Arash Super Cars AF-10, Kepler Motors, Mercedes-Benz G Class ’79 Edition and Renault’s GCC Fluence. They will be joined by a host of tuning and modification programmes including Fab Design’s Porsche Panamera Widebody, McLaren Desire Roadster and Mercedes SL Ultimate, the Hamman BMW X6M and X5M and the Revere 2010 Range Rover Sport HSR. Brabus will also surprise the motoring world with its two world premieres, while BF Performance will unveil the Versace Lamborghini Murcielago GT660 by Auto Track.

The added excitement of concept cars being showcased on a number of exhibitor stands, and a myriad of special offers, interactive activities and opportunities to win fantastic prizes during the five-day event promise to make this year’s show the most exciting to date.

“The region’s passion for innovative car design and performance, as well as its relative resilience in a challenged industry means that the Dubai Motor Show has gained even more importance for the motoring world,” said Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of the show. “Without doubt, to be hosting global launches for such high profile brands as Arash Super Cars, Kepler, Mercedes-Benz and Renault puts the Dubai Motor Show and the Middle East in the world spotlight, and ends the year on an undeniably positive note.”

As well as the spectacular new models on display, the Dubai International Motor Show will celebrate its 10th anniversary in style and provide something for everyone during the event. Visitors will stand the chance to win one of six cars worth a combined value in excess of AED 1.5 million. Visitors will also be able to watch a Lexus being coated in gold leaf and take part in the ENOC Green Route throughout the show.

Dubai International Motor Show will be held from 16 – 20 December 2009 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). Opening hours are from 11am to 10pm each day except Friday 18 December 2009, when the show will be open from 3pm to 10pm. Tickets cost AED 40 per person for the Dubai International Motor Show, or AED 50 for entrance to both Dubai International Motor Show and Outdoor Adventure Dubai, which takes place concurrently. Both tickets include free entry into the Mega Car Prize Draw for 6 cars. For more information, visit http://www.dubaimotorshow.com/.

Dubai International Motor Show 2009 Exhibitor Profile

About Dubai Motor Show Held once every two years and popularly known as the Dubai Motor Show, The Dubai International Motor Show is the single largest international automotive event in the Middle East. Stretching across over 11 exhibition halls of The Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the 2007 show ran in conjunction with two additional shows - Motor Parts & Accessories and MOTORplus. These three shows collectively offered a complete representation of the motor industry that serves the Middle East markets.
The show has a track record of pulling in crowds of affluent visitors from all of the GCC states and neighbouring countries, and is firmly established as the most lively and popular international automotive event in the region. Royalty, VIPs, top ranking government officials as well as international celebrities from the motoring world are also amongst the many visitors drawn to the show.

• Auto Products & Services


• Bikes, Trikes & Quads


• Branded Merchandise


• Car Audio Systems


• Car Finish Products


• Custom-built Vehicles


• Designers/Modifiers/Tuners


• Energy Conservation Technology


• Hybrids & Zero Emission Vehicles
  Insurance & Finance


• Media & Publishing


• Motor Cars


• Motor Games & Hobbies


• Motor Parts & Accessories


• Off Road Vehicles & SUVs


• Paints & Coatings


• Petroleum Products


• Tyres & Tubes

TOTAL NO. OF EXHIBITING COMPANIES IN 2009:Over 150 Exhibitors

BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi Sign Up for Middle East’s Premier Automotive Event Dubai International Motor Show

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Good news for the hundred thousand motoring enthusiasts expected to visit this year’s Dubai International Motor Show, is the confirmation that Germany’s top three motor manufacturers – Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz - will showcase some of the most exciting models on four wheels during the 10th anniversary event in December.

The big name brands join a growing list of international exhibitors preparing to unveil their latest models, concept cars and technological innovations during the five day event running from 16 – 20 December 2009 at the Dubai International Convention Centre (DICEC).

“With a number of motor shows either cancelled or substantially scaled down, it is testament to the region’s resilience that the Dubai International Motor Show has maintained its scale and importance as the largest and most prestigious automotive event in the Middle East. We are delighted to have such heavyweights as Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz all launching new models during the show,” said James Raffoul, Industry Group Manager, Dubai World Trade Centre.

BMW is scheduled to unveil two of their groundbreaking hybrid vehicles, with the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and BMW X1 models joining a line-up of models demonstrating BMW’s industry leadership in technology and luxury performance.

“The Middle East is a key market for BMW Group and its importance is reflected in the scale of our participation at this year’s landmark Dubai International Motor Show,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East. “We are sure that the latest innovations and models taking centre stage on our stand will create the excitement, passion and joy for which BMW is renowned. In addition, this year MINI turns 50 so we’ll have two limited edition models on display that have been produced to celebrate this landmark birthday.”

Celebrating its centenary this year, Audi promises to make a powerful statement at this year’s Dubai International Motor Show by showcasing several of its latest lighthouse models, including the A5 Sportback, an innovative 5-door Coupé concept, the new A5 Cabriolet and the fantastic Audi R8 V10. Jeff Mannering, Managing Director of Audi Middle East, comments “Amidst the financial crisis Audi has moved from contender to industry example, earning strong profits, increasing market shares and hiring in times when others are firing. With the Middle East being one of our core markets, the participation in the Dubai Motor Show is unquestioned and we will use the opportunity to show the source of our success: simply our cars.”

Set to display a total of 17 cars this year, with the fabulous ‘gullwing’ sports car Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG taking pride of place, the premium German manufacturer will also showcase its sporty range of AMG models and highlight its ‘green’ credentials with the debut appearance of the impressive S400 – the first series luxury production car to feature a hybrid drive system with a lithium-ion battery to go on sale in the Middle East and Levant.

Mr Frank Bernthaler, Director of Mercedes-Benz, Middle East and Levant commented: “The Dubai International Motor Show has always been of vital importance to Mercedes-Benz in the Middle East, allowing us to showcase our market-leading range of luxury sedans and SUVs and reach a knowledgeable and growing audience from across the region. And to mark this year’s 10th anniversary, we are planning the Middle East debut of our latest sports car, the fabulous SLS AMG ‘gullwing’, that pays homage to the original vehicle that made its first appearance at the 1954 New York Motor Show.”

Joining Audi, BMW, and Mercedes Benz, exhibitors at this year’s motor show include Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, Daihatsu, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, KTM, Lexus, Mitsubishi, MINI, Peugeot, Renault, Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Shelby Super Cars and Volkswagen, with first time appearances from AC Cars and Luxgen.

The Dubai Motor show also incorporates two events that run in conjunction with the main show – MotorPlus and Motor Parts & Accessories, featuring a host of automotive-related products and services from high-end car finishes, car entertainment, kit cars and racing gear to motor parts and components, accessories and forecourt equipment.
Dubai International Motor Show will be held from 16 – 20 December 2009 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). For more information, visit http://www.dubaimotorshow.com/

Abu Dhabi Yas Island Marina Grand Prix circuit

Lewis Hamilton Dominates In Abu Dhabi Qualifying

McLaren Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton destroyed the 20 car field in taking the Pole position by an amazing six tenths of a second for the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The event will be held Sunday at the 21-turn Yas Marina circuit and it is making its debut on the 2009 F1 calendar starting in the light of day, and finishing under lights.
For Hamilton and his MP4-24 McLaren Mercedes it was his fourth Pole of the 2009 season (Europe, Italy, Singapore - the others), and 17th of his 51 race F1 career. Tomorrow, Hamilton will go for his third win of the season (Hungary, Singapore - the others) and sixth podium in the last nine Grand Prix.

2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Formula One Starting Line-Up

Formula One’s 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will make history tomorrow as the world’s grandest circus takes to the 21-turn Hermann Tilke designed Yas Marina Circuit. It will be the first day-to-night Grand Prix, and the first Grand Prix under the lights on a ‘proper’ road circuit. Musco Lighting from Iowa (United States) provided the lighting, and they have done a fabulous job!
The circuit is 5.554 km (3.451 miles) long, and the race distance is 55 laps.
Although it could be said that the drivers and teams will be racing for pride since Jenson Button and Brawn GP wrapped up F1’s drivers and constructors championships at the last round in Brazil, there is at least one significant fight between two old foes – McLaren & Ferrari – as the silver arrows have a one point lead over the red cars for third place in the constructors battle
For McLaren, 2008 Formula One World Driver’s champion Lewis Hamilton will start from Pole and give his team a decided advantage heading into tomorrow’s race as Ferrari’s best hope for point Kimi Raikkonen will start 11th. Further still, Hamilton will have a very long run down to Turn one, and with KERS available to him once he hits 100 Mph, we don’t see any other outcome than Lewis leading after Turn One.
Hamilton is slightly lower on fuel (658.5 kg) compared to the Red Bull cars of Sebastien Vettel (663 kg) and Mark Webber (660 kg), but will be of no concern unless by some freakish streak of fate Hamilton exits Turn One in P2 or P3. And even if he does, Hamilton was nearly seven tenths quicker than either Red Bull.
We expect Lewis Hamilton to pit around lap 17-19 and use a two stop strategy. By the first pitstop, he should have a 12-14 second advantage if he is able to hold up his qualifying pace in the race. We expect Vettel and Webber in around laps 18-21, with Vettel able to go a lap longer than Webber. They may go even a bit beyond as the Renault powerplants have shown better fuel economy over the course of the season than the rest of the field.
A bit further back, the Brawn GP boys will line-up fourth (Barrichello) and fifth (Button). We don’t expect either driver to be a significant factor for the race win given they were over 1.1 seconds adrift of Hamilton carrying less fuel. But the boys will be racing to see why exactly Brawn GP should be keeping 2009 World Champion Jenson Button, and why they are letting Rubens Barrichello go to Williams. Over the second half of the season… the better driver hasn’t been the world champion. We expect Barrichello in on lap 16-18, with Button in on lap 17-19.
As for our pick for the race win. All signs point to McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton. Should he stumble, it out to be a great fight between Vettel and Webber, though we’d expect Vettel to take the day as he was quicker in qualifying, and had more fuel.

Enjoy the 2009 formula One season finale. Someone will be the first winner of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and will put their mark on history!

2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Starting Line-up & Car Weights Pos Driver Team Weight (kg) KERS

1. Hamilton McLaren 658.5 K

2. Vettel Red Bull 663.0

3. Webber Red Bull 660.0

4. Barrichello Brawn 655.0

5. Button Brawn 657.0

6. Trulli Toyota 661.0

7. Kubica BMW 654.5

8. Heidfeld BMW 664.0

9. Rosberg Williams 665.0

10. Buemi Toro Rosso 661.5

11. Raikkonen Ferrari 692.0* K

12. Kobayashi Toyota 694.3*

13. Nakajima Williams 704.0*

14. Alguersuari Toro Rosso 696.5*

15. Alonso Renault 708.3*

16. Liuzzi Force India 695.0*

17. Sutil Force India 696.0*

18. Kovalainen McLaren 697.0* K

19. Grosjean Renault 710.8*

20. Fisichella Ferrari 692.5* K

FORMER FRENCH FORMULA 1 STAR PAUL BELMONDO NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR SAINT HONORE

Parisian luxury fashion house SAINT HONORE announced the signing of former French Formula One star and actor Paul Belmondo as a brand ambassador to endorse its range of products creating an association with the world of racing.

Born on April 23, 1963, Paul is a successful former French racing driver who raced in Formula One for the March and Pacific Racing teams. He is the son of legendary French actor Jean-Paul Belmondo and grandson of sculptor Paul Belmondo.

Paul Belmondo has made a smooth and successful transition from the world of Formula I into show business and epitomizes Parisian style that is synonymous with SAINT HONORE.

Through 1987 Paul participated in Formula 3 and Formula 3000 too. In 1992 he joined the March F1 team as a pay driver. Two years later he became a member of the Pacific Grand Prix team, where he qualified for two races. Thereafter he concentrated on GT racing, at the wheel of a Chrysler Viper GTS-R. He started his own team, Paul Belmondo Racing which raced in the FIA GT Championship and Le Mans Endurance Series championship.

SAINT HONORE has created a special watch - the Orsay Black Racing limited edition in honor of this prestigious ambassador and the watch is now available to watch lovers and racing fans in the Middle East region.

Developed in conjunction with Paul Belmondo, the Orsay Black Racing chronograph has featured in the greatest world car races like the Paris-Dakar and the Le Mans 24 Hours.

The 2009 model of the Orsay Black Racing is available in two versions: black PVD case or stainless steel case.

Both finishes magnify the aesthetic qualities of the model and promote the technical features - 3-counter chronograph movement to 1/10th of a second - of this watch produced in a limited series of 250 for each version.

“Vintage” spirit, bold finishes - the tradition of Orsay Black Racing watches draws its inspiration from the "beautiful cars" of the 1970s: dial with alternating smooth, guilloche and brushed surfaces; black or white pierced leather straps decorated with red topstitching emphasizing the sophisticated, masculine feel of the watch. This watch will clearly catch the eye of male enthusiasts of racy elegance and strong sensations.

BYD is ready to launch S8 in next month!

Sources from NetEase, China’s first convertible, the BYD S8 will be launched in August. The S8 will be BYD’s first S series model to list on market, price would come around 200, 000 Yuan(1USD = 6.8Yuan).
The S8 is well known of fashion design and its full sports-style. The grille, headlamps and peanut-based fits very perfect. It measures(L*W*H) 4490MM * 2020MM * 1405MM with wheelbase 2520MM

Ford Motor to launch new car every 1-1.6 yr in Indian Market

US car maker, Ford Motor, has decided to launch a new car every 12 to 18 months in India as part of its strategy to spruce up marketshare. This was indicated by Michael Boneham, president and MD of Ford India here on Thursday.
Talking to newsmen at the inauguration of Ford’s new dealership, Victoria Ford, Mr Boneham said: "We now have a marketshare of nearly 2% and we want to grow it significantly in coming years. Launching of new cars from the Ford stable, will play a crucial role in growing our market share in India." However he refused to divulge what sort of marketshare the company aims to achieve in the long run.
For calendar year 2009, Ford India aims to achieve a sales of 30,000 cars compared to 29,000 cars sold in calendar 2008. "In September ‘09, we have been able to sell 3,500 cars which is a 50% increase year-on-year basis," said Nigel Wark, executive director (marketing, sales and services).
The company exports its cars produced in India to South Africa. Last year, the company had exported nearly 4,000 cars. "This year, we expect to maintain the same export level," said Mr Boneham. Ford’s foray into the Indian compact car market with Figo is expected by the first quarter of calender 2010 and the vehicle would be exported to Asia Pacific and Africa along with sales in India.
Ford India is investing $500 million in expanding production at its Chennai plant from 1 lakh to 2 lakh vehicles, apart from producing 2.5 lakh engines, both in petrol and diesel. "The engine plant will be the export hub for Asia Pacific and Africa," Mr Boneham said. He, however, declined to state what percentage of production would be earmarked for the overseas markets.
Relaunching its SUV Endeavour with some added facilities, Boneham said the new Figo, on which the company is depending to get into the lucrative A segment, would be available in both petrol and diesel variants. "We are coming up with a 1.2 litre petrol engine while the diesel variant would be a sub 1.5 litre one," he said. "Pricing of the car will be extremely competitive," Mr Boneham said assuring that the car would be loaded with goodies.

Frankfurt Motor Show 2009

The Frankfurt Motor Show 2009 (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung), 15 - 27 September 2009 - all the latest news,

Frankfurt Motor Show 2009

The Frankfurt Motor Show 2009 (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung), 15 - 27 September 2009 - all the latest news,

WALK IN, DRIVE OUT’ FINANCING FROM AL HILAL BANK AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Not only will visitors to this year’s Dubai International Motor Show enjoy a wide range of special show offers during the five day event in December, but they will also be able to obtain almost instant financing during the show, thanks to an exclusive agreement with Al Hilal Bank.

At a time when global markets are dealing with a difficult economic climate, Al Hilal Bank’s participation as the show’s Platinum sponsor is a huge confidence boost to the Middle East motor industry. The deal will provide a simple, convenient financing solution for visitors to the show.

“We welcome Al Hilal Bank’s participation at the Dubai International Motor Show this year as it’s a clear testament of the overall confidence that is returning to the motor industry,” said Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the show. “The Dubai International Motor Show is set to celebrate its tenth anniversary in style with exclusive global launches, and great visitor offers.”

“The preferred partnership with Al Hilal Bank will certainly provide customers with greater flexibility and creativity in financing to further stimulate the growth of the motor industry,” she added.

The event, which is open to the public from 16 - 20 December 2009 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, with many of the leading automotive manufacturers and exhibitors offering exclusive deals to mark the occasion.

The strategic partnership with Al Hilal Bank, a financial institution with a refreshingly progressive approach to customer service, will allow customers to take advantage of special show promotions and complete all necessary transactions within one hour. Called the ‘Walk In Drive Out’ service, the exclusive approval package includes the documentation, finance approval, insurance and vehicle registration, all processed in just sixty minutes.

Mohamed Zaquot, Executive Vice President and Head of Personal Banking for Al Hilal Bank said: “We are delighted to be participating as the platinum sponsor at this year’s Dubai International Motor Show. Since our launch a year ago Al Hilal Bank has worked hard to deliver banking excellence within the region, and with innovative business models like our ‘Walk In Drive Out’ automotive financing service we look forward to providing innovative and impactful banking services to exhibitors and visitors alike.”

The Dubai International Motor Show promises to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a wealth of exciting promotions, competitions and entertaining activities for the whole family. New models, concept cars and technological innovations from the leading automotive manufacturers in Europe, the Americas and Asia will be showcased this year, with a number of global launches offering visitors the chance to see the some of the latest models before the rest of the world.

Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Daihatsu, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, KTM, Mitsubishi, MINI, Peugeot, Renault, and Shelby Super Cars, with first time appearances from AC Cars and Luxgen, are already preparing for a big presentation at this year’s event.

Dubai International Motor Show will be held from 16 – 20 December 2009 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). For more information, visit http://www.dubaimotorshow.com/.

New 2009 Nissan Nismo 370Z In New York Auto Show

Built by Nissan's Specialty Vehicles Group with the help of Autech Japan, Nissan's longtime conversion partner, project engineers focused their efforts on making the new 2009 Nissan Nismo 370Z more aggressive in just about every aspect. First off, it looks the part. Its race-car-like body kit fits the stock lines well and produces more downforce at speed, officials say. Look closely at its nose and the integrated canard design on each side becomes evident. Although it has the same wheelbase as the stock 370Z at 100.4 in., the Nismo model is some 7-in. longer (167.2 in. stock vs. 174.3 in. Nismo) overall and slightly narrower (72.8 in. stock vs. 72.6 in. Nismo). Matching the kit's racer attitude on each corner are a set of wider, edition-specific lightweight five-spoke 19-in. Rays Japan alloys. The car's Nismo sport brakes (the same binders as on the 370Z Sport Package) at 14 in. front/13.8 in. rear, hide behind the forged rollers.
Speaking of corners, the Nismo Z is poised to attack all types of bends in full force thanks to a sturdier suspension setup. Engineers managed to tighten up the spring rates by 15% and 10%, front and rear, respectively, and chassis bars by 15% (front) and 50% (rear). Yes, 50%. The Nismo Z's complete stiffness rate is up an impressive 15% overall, according to Nissan.

2009 New York Auto Show - 2010 Mazda CX-7

2009 New York Auto ShowMazda's refreshed 2010 Mazda CX-7, which is making its U.S. debut at New York, features new styling and a new 2.5L engine -- the same block that serves duty in the Mazda3 and Mazda6. No doubt designed as a more economical alternative to the usual 244-horsepower turbocharged 2.3L engine that's still an option in the CX-7's engine bay, the slightly larger, normally-aspirated 2.5L four-banger will produce 161 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque. Though pricing and fuel economy figures are not yet available, we're willing to bet the offering will trade a little power for improved gas mileage and a lower MSRP.
Beyond the new engine option, Mazda has revised the CX-7's styling both inside and out. Most noticeable is the new five-point front grille that is quickly becoming an integral part of Mazda's current design language and is also visible in the redesigns of the Mazda3, MX-5, and RX-8. Inside, the gauges get a refresh with three-dimensional dials and a Multi Information Display. The passenger's seat receives power adjustment, while a three-position driver's seat memory and Bluetooth compatibility are also new. Mazda says that overall, the 2010 CX-7 is refined greatly over the current version and that improvements extend all the way to the build quality. The body rigidity has reportedly also been improved, with it lower noise, vibration, and harshness levels are readily apparent -- even wind noise has been reduced, according to the automaker

The Hyundai Nuvis Concept by Hyundai at the 2009 New York Show

The Hyundai Nuvis Concept is yet another hybrid-crossover dream machine designed to blend utility with small-car fuel-economy and sci-fi futuristic styling. Powered by a parallel hybrid system backed up by a 270-watt lithium-polymer battery, the Nuvis delivers an estimated 34 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, according to Hyundai.
The Nuvis employs Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive system, which operates on a principle similar to Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive setup. In this case, Hyundai's 228-hp Theta II 2.4L inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a 30 kW electric motor that can get the vehicle moving from a stop and provide extra power for accelerating and passing.Its six-speed automatic transmission has seen its fourth, fifth and sixth gears extended for better highway fuel-economy. Hyundai says its lithium-polymer battery pack, which is stored under the rear cargo floor, is more space-efficient and durable than nickel-metal hydride or lithium-ion battery packs found in other hybrids.
Blue Drive is a styling influence as well. To drive the point home, the color blue has turned up all over the vehicle. It's in the headlights, it's trimming the brake ducts in the lower front fascia, it's hiding in character lines behind the front wheels and it's lighting up the Hyundai logos at either end of the vehicle. Pull open the massive gullwing doors and you'll find plenty more where that came from. On the floors, you'll find blue accent lighting running from front to rear that looks like a river flowing beneath your feet and pulses to emulate moving water. That is, if you notice the floor. Most people likely won't be able to take their eyes of the alien-space-ship dash and center console.