Hyundai New Turbo Diesels

Hyundai has released details on its newest diesel powerplant, the "R-Engine" that was first previewed in prototype form on the 2008 Geneva Show HED-5 i-MODE concept. The all-aluminum R-Engine benefits from a third generation common rail system with piezo-electric injectors to deliver fuel at 1800-bar while it also features an electronic variable geometry turbocharger and an advanced engine control unit. The new powerplant will be available in two sizes, 2.0 and 2.2-litres with outputs of 184HP / 392Nm and 200HP /436Nm respectively. Hyundai said that the R-Engine will enter production in 2009 and will see its first application in new SUV vehicles and large saloons.


"R proves Hyundai's diesel development capabilities really are world-class. With diesels becoming cleaner and more fuel efficient all the time, there's a growing demand for diesel powerplants worldwide and Hyundai is well positioned to supply the market with the very best diesel technology," said Dr Hyun-Soon Lee, president of Hyundai's Corporate Research and Development Division.

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Renault Frendzy Concept

French automaker Renault has just unveiled its latest zany electric concept. Called Frendzy, this electrifying vehicle is a 14-foot-long whimsical design study that showcases some of the automaker's innovative technologies.

For motivation, the Frendzy makes use of the electric gear that powers the Renault Kangoo Z.E. Renault has not revealed the Frendzy's estimated range, but does claim the battery-powered concept tops out at 80 miles per hour.

Renault pitches the Frendzy as a multi-purpose vehicle, saying that it transforms from a workaday vehicle to a family-hauling machine on weekends. Renault describes the Frendzy's transformation like this:

On weekdays, Frendzy is a vehicle that adapts to the requirements of the business user, with a large external screen that can display useful messages or information or advertising messages, either while parked or on the move. Come the weekend, the vehicle transforms itself into a family vehicle, with a comfortable passenger seat and, in the rear, a big bench seat. Depending on their mood of the moment, children can watch a film or play games on the touch-sensitive pad which slides out from the back of the driver's seat. They can even draw on a special slate integrated into the sliding door.

According to Renault, the Frendzy is a "multi-faceted friend" that automatically tackles friendly tasks, including changing the orientation of the exterior mirrors, setting the interior mood lighting and altering the vehicle's pedestrian warning system as the Frendzy transforms from "work" to "family" mode.

Given these zany features, it seems unlikely the Frendzy will enter production. However, we do know that this electric concept will make its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Hit the jump to catch some video of the electrified Frendzy. Looking for more details? Check out Renault's press release after the jump.

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