Green concept highlights Seoul Motor Show
The 2011 Seoul Motor Show opened on Friday with the theme of "Evolution, Green Revolution on Wheels".
As apparent in its theme, this year's show is all about "green". The event is a clear indication of green consciousness permeating auto industry, with a plethora of electric and hybrid vehicles on display.
Marking its eighth year, the event, held at the Korea International Exhibition Center in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, is the largest in its history, with the participation by 139 automakers and auto parts manufacturers from eight countries including Japan, the United States and France.
The 11-day show features nearly 300 vehicles, including 54 brand-new cars. Of the newly introduced cars, five are world premieres while 22 models are being unveiled for the first time in Asia.
Many of the vehicles offered by the participating automakers have a decidedly green hue with their fuel efficiency and eco-friendly technology.
Nissan's Leaf electric car made its debut at the Seoul Motor Show. The Leaf, which is world's first mass produced battery-electric car was displayed with its battery recharging facilities, thereby offering visitors knowledge about how it would work in real life.
Toyota presented the largest number of concept cars at the show, including the plug-in hybrid version of the Prius, the FT-EV electric car and the FCHV, a hybrid hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.
South Korean manufacturer Kia Motors took the wraps off a new electric concept car dubbed Naimo, showcasing high-tech features and traditional South Korea arts-and crafts materials. The company also presented the POP electric concept, which made its first appearance at the 2010 Paris Motor Show last fall. Besides concept cars, the company revealed a new hybrid version of its iconic K5 sedan, slated to roll out in the first half of this year.
"The purpose of developing hybrid vehicles is to raise fuel efficiency so that the vehicles can move further with the same amount of fuel. These days, there are many regulations regarding the environment, and that many are moving toward developing electric cars to reduce environmental pollution," said Kim Bum-sik, a research engineer from the Research and Development Division at the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group.
Hyundai Motor launched its first gasoline-hybrid vehicle, the Sonata Hybrid, to its home market. It also introduced a fuel-cell concept car - the Blue Square.
In order to promote its future eco-friendly technology, Hyundai set up a separate booth for its commercial vehicles. The Green Zone showcased the company's electric bus, diesel hybrid mega truck, hydrogen fuel cell bus cutaway and a new eco-friendly power system technology.
Volkswagen focused on showcasing car models bearing the BlueMotion label. The compnay's BlueMotion Technology products boast less fuel consumption and lower emissions. Volkswagen also drew attention by unveiling the new Zeta, Tuareg and Sirocco R for the first time here.
Porsche demonstrated its green efforts at the Seoul Motor Show by showcasing its Cayenne S Hybrid.
The organizing committee of the show expects over one million spectators, with an economic riffle effect worth of one trillion won (around $90 billion).
The Seoul Motor Show runs through April 10.
