Hyundai Plans First U.S. Hybrid by the Winter Holidays

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Rated at 39 MPG

Washington DC April 5, 2010; The AIADA newsletter reported that Hyundai's first hybrid will be in U.S. showrooms "in time for holiday shopping this year," says John Krafcik, CEO of Hyundai Motor America.

Unveiling the 2011 Sonata Hybrid at the New York auto show, Krafcik said that the car features design changes from the just-introduced Sonata and uses a new hybrid powertrain architecture that is lighter than that of its rivals and holds a charge longer.

According to Automotive News, Hyundai is betting on a new battery technology that Krafcik said weighs less and gives the Sonata 1.7 times the battery charge life of competing hybrid systems.

The Sonata will be the first vehicle to use LG batteries, Krafcik said. In March, LG said it will construct a $303 million battery plant in Holland, Mich., that will supply General Motors with lithium ion batteries.

Michael Deitz, Hyundai Motor America's manager of product planning, said the Sonata Hybrid has design changes that differentiate it from the standard-powertrain Sonata. The Hybrid's front end features a large glossy black oval containing shutters that open or close to cut wind resistance. It also has a panoramic sunroof and adds chrome trim along the lower body.