KOREA CAR

New Drivers in korea

2011-05-13T12:18:00.001-07:00

New Residents to the Province of Ontario, CANADA How To Apply for a Licence
If you have a driver's licence from another Canadian province or territory, or from another country, your previous driving experience may help you to get an Ontario driver's licence sooner. If you are a new resident of Ontario and have a valid driver's licence from another province or country, you can use that licence for 60 days in Ontario. If you want to continue to drive after 60 days, you must get an Ontario driver's licence.
Two Or More Years Driving Experience & Drivers from Canada, the United States and Japan, Korea, Germany, Austria, and switzerland:
If you are a licenced driver with two or more years of driving experience in another Canadian province or territory, the United States or Japan or the Republic of Korea, you may get full Class G licence privileges without taking a knowledge or road test. However, you must meet all medical requirements, including a vision test and show acceptable proof of your previous licence status and driving experience.
Acceptable proof includes your driver's licence showing the previous driving experience or written confirmation from the licensing authorities. These conditions also apply to licenced motorcycle drivers from Canada and the United States.
Note: There is no exchange agreement for motorcycle drivers from Japan or the Republic of Korea.

Less than Two Years Driving Experience:
If you have less than two years of driving experience, you may get credit for your experience and enter Level Two of the graduated licensing system. Once you have a total of two years of driving experience, you may take the Level Two road test to earn full driving privileges.
Drivers from other countries (other than above) without driver's licence exchange agreements with Ontario:
If you are a licenced driver from a country other than Canada, the United States or Japan or the Republic of Korea, you must meet the Ontario driver medical requirements, pass a vision and knowledge test and the required road tests.
Two or More years Driving Experience:
If you have acceptable proof of two or more years of driving experience, you may take the Level Two road test to earn full driving privileges. If you do not pass this road test, you will get a Level One licence (G1) and may immediately schedule a Level One road test.
More than One Year But Less Than Two Years Driving Experience:
If you have less than two years of driving experience, you will be placed in Level One (G1).However, if you have acceptable proof that you have the driving experience required for Level One, you can immediately schedule a Level One road test to enter Level Two (G2).
You will stay in Level One until you have at least 12 months driving experience before you will be eligible to take the Level One road test to enter Level Two.
Acceptable Proof of Previous Driving Experience:
A driver's licence issued by another country is considered acceptable proof if it shows the required driving experience. If it does not, you will need to provide a written confirmation of your previous driving experience. If you do not have acceptable proof of your driving experience, you will start at the beginning of Level One as a new driver.
The Applicant must attend a Driver Examination Center to exchange the licence and must:
be at least 16 years of age; complete an "Application for Ontario Driver's Licence; present your out of country/province driver's licence verifying previous driving experience or written confirmation about your previous driving experience from the licensing authorities; provide one other piece of identification showing your signature; pass a vision test; pass a written test and a level one or level two road test as required;

The Korean Bus Driver

2011-05-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

Waiting for my usual bus today, I began to worry about which driver I would get. There are five or six drivers assigned to the route I ride most frequently, and all but one of them are very angry with the world. I hoped desperately that I would get one of them, and not the friendly driver. I was running late, and the angry drivers always get me there on time.
Unfortunately, a gloved, waving hand greeted me as I boarded the bus and I immediately began sending apologetic text messages. Sure enough, the trip took 10 minutes longer than most.
My experience today isn’t the norm, however. The Korean bus driver will almost definitely get you there on time.
In the daily effort to meet what I can only guess must be a ridiculously tight stop schedule, the Korean bus driver probably runs 50 red lights, narrowly misses running over a dozen pedestrians, cuts off at least as many cars, and causes two dozen passengers to fall while boarding or disembarking. The buses here will affect you somehow, either as pedestrian, passenger, or driver.

My own experiences with Korean buses have inspired the following list of driving practices that seem common to all Korean bus drivers. For all I know, they may even be part of Korea’s Ministry of Transport’s training program.

Turning lanes are actually express lanes. When traffic is stopped, use these express lanes to bypass law-abiding drivers. Cut back into the regular lane (or even all the way to the opposite turning lane!) at the intersection and wait confidently for the light to change.
Increase speed at red lights. Otherwise, crossing pedestrians and traffic may hinder your progress.
Do not stop the bus in designated passenger pick-up / drop-off areas. Stopping in these areas will mean more passengers successfully boarding your bus. Stop far enough away from groups of passengers so that only the strongest in the pack make it to the door in time.
Randomly fail to make stops. Particularly effective if you’re behind schedule, this practice requires that you ignore shouts from passengers attempting to board or disembark. See next.
Subject your passengers to a constant stream of 60s / 70s pop songs. MOT studies have shown that Bee Gees b-tracks or Beatles remixes have a calming effect on passengers, particularly in life-threatening situations.
Use the bus’ climate controls to make passengers as uncomfortable as possible. A good guideline is summer = full a/c, winter = full heating, regardless of outdoor weather conditions. If one is available, equip yourself with a bus whose windows do not open for maximum effectiveness.
Do not stop the bus for boarding or disembarking passengers. This only results in lost time. Never allow the bus to come to a complete stop – otherwise, passengers may seize the opportunity to ask a question. Passengers must not interfere with your primary objective – purposeless speed.

Porsche Panamera exterior and interior

2011-05-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

The bodywork of the Panamera is low and wide, and has been compared to a sedan. Although based loosely on the original design of the 911 Carrera, the Panamera is different in that its engine is in the front of the vehicle. This has irked some Porsche fanatics, but the Porsche designers have tried their best to keep the engine as close to the centre of the vehicle as possible. The Panamera range will include three engine choices for the Porsche purist. A more affordable V6 version is also expected to be released later next year.

Despite the hype, there are many Porsche enthusiasts who are not too thrilled about the production of the Panamera. They feel that too much has been taken away from the original feel of a Porsche. There were also a lot of negative whispers regarding the Porsche Cayenne, which was often labeled as 'ugly.' Due to the leaked spy photos people all over the world have analyzed and examined the new model and the response hasn't always been complimentary. Some are comparing it to the Cayenne and feel that the Panamera is only a bulkier and uglier version of the 911.

2012 Hyundai Genesis

2011-05-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Hyundai's Genesis sedan is much improved for 2012, yet its position in the market won't change one bit. The Genesis will continue to give engineers and product planners at Mercedes-Benz and Lexus fits, thanks to the sedan's upgraded V-6 engine, revised suspension tuning, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission -- not to mention the 429-horsepower R-Spec model.
Debuting at the Chicago Auto Show, the 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan is prepared to battle competitors from above, like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and, more directly, the Chrysler 300C. Whether you choose the V-6 or one of the two V-8 models, the Genesis uses a new eight-speed automatic transmission.

Click to view GalleryIn addition to the transmission, direct-injection technology increases the power and efficiency of the 3.8-liter V-6 Genesis. Power is now 333 horsepower (43 more ponies than before), and torque has risen from 264 pound-feet to 291 pound-feet. Hyundai expects highway fuel efficiency to increase to 29 mpg, though city fuel economy probably won't stray far from the 2011 model's 18 mpg. With power on the 4.6-liter V-8 remaining at 385 horsepower, this makes the V-6 model more of a value than before. Don't be surprised if the 2012 Genesis 3.8 accelerates as fast as a 2011 Genesis V-8.

Click to view GalleryThe real news for the 2012 Genesis is the R-Spec model. Its 5.0-liter V-8 makes 429 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 376 pound-feet of torque at 5000 rpm. This latest version of Hyundai's Tau V-8 has a revised bed plate to improve block rigidity and lower NVH-both important considerations since the engine also replaces the 4.6-liter V-8 in the larger 2012 Equus.
For the full R-Spec package, we'd recommend upgrading to the Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer performance tires. Larger front and rear stabilizer bars should also help improve the driving experience, and form the backbone of what the automaker calls "aggressive chassis tuning." The R-Spec adds a little flash with dark chrome inserts in the headlights and unique 19-inch alloys. The steering has been tweaked, too, though we'll have to wait until we get some seat time before determining whether it's a true competitor with sportier entries in the segment.

2011 Hyundai Elantra announced in Korea

2011-05-13T11:47:00.001-07:00

Recently, 2011 Hyundai Elantra world debut in South Korea and will begin selling in the second half. The car also known as Hyundai Avante in Korea, it is already the 4th brand-new updating.
2011 Hyundai Elantra uses a fluid sculpture design, reserved family style. Appearance changes, including the front, side and rear, looks more fashionable and dynamic. Also equipped with some new high-end equipment, including HID head lamps, LED combination taillights, heated rear seats, TFT LCD display screen and so on.
2011 Hyundai Elantra powered by a 1.6L Gamma GDI direct injection gasoline engine, maximum output of 140ps, maximum torque of 166Nm, and the fuel economy increase of 13%. Match the 6-speed automatic transmission to replace the previous 4-speed automatic transmission.

Korean supercar: Proto Spirra launched

2011-05-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

Today, Korean supercar – Proto Spirra official listing in South Korea, and it is also called “Korean Ferrari“.
Proto Spirra is built by carbon fiber, length / width / height were 4355/1925/1215mm, with a wheelbase of 2660mm. In addition, it is also equipped with 225/40 R19 tires.

In power terms, Proto Spirra equipped with a Hyundai 2.7L V6 engine, and adopted the mid-engine design. It offers four different versions, including Spirra N (129kw/245Nm), Spirra S (243kw/471Nm), Spirra turbo (294 -309kw/490Nm), Spirra ex (331-368kw/539Nm). Matches a 6-speed manual transmission, in which the top model 0-100km / h acceleration time of only 3.5 seconds, top speed of 315km / h.

Hyundai entrega dos unidades del i10 BlueON al gobierno coreano.

2011-05-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Motor Company entregó las dos primeras unidades del i10 BlueON, el pequeño utilitario totalmente eléctrico de la marca coreana. Estas dos unidades se usaran en el Ministerio de Transporte y Asuntos Marítimos. Se esperan recoger datos como los diferentes “estilos” de conducción, y los propios comentarios de los que los testen con el objetivo de mejorar lo que seria el producto final, que se comercializaría en serie más adelante.
El i10 BlueOn cuenta con una velocidad máxima de 130 km/h y una aceleración de 0 a 100km/h en 13,1 segundos. Además, con una sola carga puede recorrer hasta 140 kilómetros. Para recargarse completamente necesita de 6 horas con el enchufe tradicional, mientras que con la trifásica, puede cargarse al 80% en 25 minutos.

Korea’s first electric car exceeds expectations

2011-05-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

As recently as a few years ago, people thought of electric vehicles as being closer to golf carts than they were to functional cars. While rapid advances in technology in recent years have led to the development of a few low-speed EVs, these cars are largely impractical for city driving because they are too slow to keep up with traffic.

However, with the release of the Hyundai Motor BlueOn, Korea’s first high-speed EV, we may soon be seeing more of these vehicles around.

The vehicle was introduced on Sept. 9, with President Lee Myung-bak taking it for spin during a press event at the Blue House.

I recently had a chance to test drive the vehicle for myself at Hyundai Motor’s Namyang Research and Development Center in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi.

To be honest, I didn’t have high expectations for the vehicle before my test drive, even though I found the company’s efforts to promote it intriguing.

When I arrived at the Namyang Center, five BlueOn vehicles were waiting for me.

The first thing I noticed was the car’s exterior is similar in design to the Hyundai i10, on which the BlueOn is based.

The other thing I noticed is that the hexagonal grill and sleek headlight design seemed to go along with the automaker’s efforts to create a unified look for all of its models. And the words “blue drive,” emblazoned on the driver’s side door seemed to draw attention to the automaker’s efforts to promote the vehicle as eco-friendly.

The car has two charging outlets. The primary outlet is inside the Hyundai emblem on the front of the vehicle, and the quick charger is on the left side of the car in place of the gas hatch.

The vehicle needs six hours on 220 volts of electricity for a full charge. A quick charge that yields an 80 percent charge takes 25 minutes with 380 volts of electricity.

Inside the vehicle, the center console is well organized with everything from a CD player and cup holders to an air conditioner control panel.

The 4.2-inch TFT-LCD (thin film transistor liquid crystal display) dashboard displays the usual gauges for speed and energy, but it also shows a graphic image of a polar bear to show the driver how efficient he is.

When I turned the key, the words “EV Ready” lit up, along with a voice message telling me that I was ready to go. But I didn’t hear a single noise from the engine, so I was momentarily confused as to whether I should really take off or not.

It was nice that it was so quiet inside, but I started to wonder about safety. I later learned that the car has a Virtual Engine Sound System to alert pedestrians on the street the car is approaching. This works when the vehicle is traveling at less than 20 kilometers per hour (12.42 miles per hour).

Before my test drive, I had heard so much about how slow electric vehicles are that I decided to test the vehicle at full speed. According to the company, the vehicle has a maximum speed of 130 kph and can travel 140 kilometers on a single charge.

After I drove over to the testing track, I stepped on the accelerator as far as it would go and I was off.

Soon enough, I was up to 130 kph without much noise or hesitation. The vehicle didn’t wobble or struggle at the high speed and I felt completely safe. All I could hear was the sound of the tires rolling along the asphalt.

Next, I went up a hill with a 25 percent incline. Surprising me again, the BlueOn didn’t hesitate once, either on the way up or going back down. The power was there and the vehicle didn’t have any difficulty tackling the steep slope.

The BlueOn definitely exceeded my expectations and the first thing I thought when I finished the drive was that it would make a great vehicle for the daily commute.

However, it does face some obstacles before it’s ready for the commercial market.

First, the country lacks the infrastructure to support a widespread adoption of EVs. Not only are there few recharging stations, but the length of time its takes to recharge the vehicle needs to be shortened.

Second, the vehicle is expensive. There is speculation that the current price may be close to 50 million won ($43,100). The vehicle’s 200 kilogram battery, located under the seats, that accounts for a significant proportion of the total cost. If Hyundai is planning to mass produce the BlueOn, which the company is marketing as a “City Commuter,” the price needs to be made more affordable for the average citizen. There also needs to be greater government support to boost the EV industry in Korea.

2011 Kia Optima: One Epic Ride -- Big Game 2011 Commercial

2011-05-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

In the first quarter of Super Bowl XLV, Kia is scheduled to air a 60-second commercial entitled, 'One Epic Ride.' Here's video of the ad:

I really appreciate the tone of this one. It's self-aware, but unlike many over-the-top commercials, it doesn't waste time giggling at itself. The sole objective seems to be, "let's fit as many cool things into this ad as we possibly can," and they succeeded.

A man and a woman are handcuffed to a police motorcycle while the cop presumably drives away in their car. An Inspector Gadget-esque villain captures it via helicopter and is about to deliver it to a sea-faring tycoon, when Poseidon springs forth from the ocean deep and grabs it, only for an alien craft to abduct it. An alien inadvertently drives the Kia into a wormhole summoned by an ancient chief transports it through time into the Inca Empire.
Yeah, but that cop broke the law! How are those poor people supposed to get home? What if it rains? This commercial really should have taken the time to tie up these loose ends. Also, does the Spanish Empire end up with the car, or what?

Bullet-proof Hyundai Equus for Korean President

2011-05-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

2011 Hyundai Equus
Do you want to get presidential with your ride? Join Korean president Lee Myung-Bak in purchasing the new 2011 Hyundai Equus luxury car and you can imagine yourself as a head of state. Or at least, you’d be secure in the knowledge that you’d be in the same model car as the Korean president.
Here’s your dose of politically-inspired automotive history for the day: while Korea is the fifth-largest car manufacturing country in the world. Up until the release of the 2011 Hyundai Equus, none of the Korean-designed cars had been considered “viable” for the task of transporting the president of the country safely.
Hyundai enjoys an excellent car reputation worldwide, but it’s a reputation for making reliable budget hatchbacks, not classy presidential limousine-cum-tank machines.

Before the Hyundai Equus, the Korean head of state was driven around in a bulletproof Mercedes Benz. This was despite the fact that Myung-Bak was a former chairman and employee of Hyundai for an incredible twenty-seven years!
However, if safety is a concern for the Korean president – and it always is with presidential motorcades of any nationality – he can ride assured in his specially built, 2011 Hyundai Equus: the specially armored presidential ride can supposedly withstand a blast from 15 kilograms of TNT. Now that’s a dynamite ride!
So does the Korean automaker’s step out from the moniker of “value conscious” live up to the hype? Time will tell: the 2011 Equus is released this fall and is expected to compete with other luxury sedans like those in the S-Class. With a starting price sticker of $55,000, it’s not your ordinary Hyundai.
The South Korean government has apparently given the Equus the stamp of approval, now the only thing left to see is if the rest of the consumer world agrees.

2011 kia edmunds

2011-05-12T07:34:00.000-07:00

2011 Kia Sorento A review of the 2011 Kia Sorento that covers pros and cons, available options, powertrains and overall driving performance. Edmunds.com announced recently the winners of the sixth annual Edmunds.com Consumers' Most Wanted vehicle awards. Apparently, however, Edmund's editors and readers differ greatly in what they think is2011 Kia Optima A review of the 2011 Kia Optima that covers pros and cons, available options, powertrains and overall driving performance.

2011 Kia Optima Earns an Edmunds' Editors Most Wanted Award IRVINE, Calif. , Jan. 6, 2011; The Editors of Edmunds' InsideLine named the all-new, performance-oriented 2011 Kia Optima as an "Editors' Most Wanted(SM)" Award winner. The ...
2011 Kia Sorento - Car Forums - Edmunds I checked the kia world website they were talking about sept 15 release of the car I have not called dealers and checked but did have a call from bremerton hyundi dealer today and ...
2011 Kia Optima Earns an Edmunds' InsideLine Editors' Most ... 2011 Kia Optima Earns an Edmunds' InsideLine Editors' Most Wanted Award --All-New Midsize Sedan Continues Kia's Dramatic Brand Transformation -- Optima is only ...

2011 Kia Sportage - Car Forums - Edmunds 2011 Kia Sportage discussion in the car forums by Edmunds
2011 Kia Sorento - Car Forums - Edmunds Kias Korean Home Page says the new 2010 Sorento R equipped with a diesel engine can achieve 14.1 km/liter, which is equivalent to about 33 MPG. The following is the the link to the ...
2011 Kia Sorento - Car Forums - Edmunds Would anyone know what kind of speakers do the new 2011 have?? I need to replace them they are horrible! None can give me a straight answer. Thanks

Kia coupe

2011-05-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

Wave goodbye to the Spectra name; Kia’s planning on sending the moniker packing when the car is replaced in mid-2009. Kicking up the style as a way to grab the dollars of younger buyers, Kia will introduce the styling paradigm laid out by the Koup Concept at last year’s New York Auto Show, which will grace a production sedan and coupe. The sedan will hit the market first, with the coupe following within a couple months. The hatchback Spectra will be out of the U.S. lineup entirely; Kia thinks the coupe and its sexier lines will move more units. European buyers will still be able to purchase the Spectra hatch as the cee’d, though. More style in this instance is a good thing. We’ve seen the Koup, and we like it. We’ve driven the Spectra, and we like that, too. If Kia can successfully match the chassis to the expectations set by the body, the Spectra’s successor should have no problem maintaing that model’s best-seller status in the Kia lineup.

Crunch time for Holden's Korean cars

2011-04-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

Holden's incoming boss Mark Reuss has suggested the local car maker was wrong to source the Barina from Korea instead of Europe, promising that the next-generation version will be much improved. BRUCE NEWTON reports.

TheHoldenBarinareceivedonlytwostarsinNCAPcrash-testratings.
The incoming boss of Holden says the quality of the company's range of Korean-sourced small cars needs some attention.

Mark Reuss, who starts work as Holden chairman and managing director on February 1, made the admission while outlining his plans for Holden during a media conference at the Detroit auto show.

However, he also made the commitment that the next-generation Barina mini due from Korea in 2009 would be a vast improvement.

I really want to concentrate on quality as one of the very top things that I want for Holden and anything badged as a Holden, he said.

Asked if he thought the current Korean-sourced Holdens were deficient in quality, Mr Reuss agreed: You can get into steering, brakes . . . I can go on and on and on. We sell the same car here (in the US) by the way.

The Holden Barina mini and Viva small car are based on aged designs that GM inherited when it took over Daewoo in 2002.

The Korean Barina succeeded the Opel-sourced Corsa, while the Viva is sold as an adjunct to the (Opel) Astra. Holden cited financial reasons for the change. But while both Barina and Viva are offered at rock-bottom pricing, neither has been a record-breaking seller.

The Barina has drawn additional criticism and controversy due to disastrous NCAP crash-test results, in which it merited only two stars.

Choosing his words carefully, Mr Reuss described the decision to swap away from the Corsa - which in its latest incarnation is a five-star crash performer and is rated among the best minis in the world - as interesting to me as well. I will leave it at that.

Mr Reuss said he would investigate ways of improving the quality of the current Barina and Viva, but warned there were only limited actions that could be taken.

Mr Reuss also promised the Barina's replacement will be a vast improvement: They are not (just) competitive cars, they are winning cars, he said.

New Kia Soul Launched In South Africa

2011-04-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

Kia’s stylish and fun urban cross-over car, the Soul, has become the first Korean car ever to receive recognition from the world renowned ‘red dot’ awards at the 2009 product design competition held in Germany.
With more than 3,230 entries from 49 countries in 17 different categories, the newly-launched Kia Soul was selected from the ‘Automobile Transport and Caravan’ section to receive an honourable mention.

Our design teams in Korea, California and Europe can be very proud Kia Soul has achieved this prestigious recognition. Kia’s design strategy is focusing on distinctive product solutions and the development of a unique Kia family look. This recognition is a clear reward for Kia’s determination to establish design as one of the key components of its corporate DNA,” says Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

Possibly even more importantly the new little un gained a 5-star Euro NCAP rating just days before its local release.

The passion behind this vehicle arose from the idea to create a rebellious new car for a new generation of drivers. The new Kia Soul is anything but standard. Kia’s suggestion to its customers is to ‘think inside the box and drive beyond it, says Ray Levin, Managing Director of Kia Motors South Africa. This is a brand new urban crossover packed full of liberating ideas – a car that challenges consumers to free your mind.

Soul is an urban crossover – small enough to be ideally suited to the world’s urban jungles, but very different to conventional, workaday small cars. By combining the charm and desirability of MINI and Fiat 500, with a hint of SUV ruggedness, Kia is opening up an entirely new market sub-segment with a car that will win the hearts – and souls – of the young and the young-at-heart.

Like conventional superminis, Soul has five doors, five seats and front-wheel drive; is just over four metres long and is a hatchback.

It remains faithful to the concept car revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit at the start of 2006. That concept was the inspiration of Kia’s North American design studios in California, led by Tom Kearns. Eight months later, when Peter Schreyer became Chief Design Officer at Kia, he was immediately full of enthusiasm for Soul and has personally overseen the project through to the final production stage. He was intimately involved with the Soul concept ‘trio’ of Burner, Searcher and Diva, which appeared at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008. Design teams in America, Europe and Korea have collaborated to bring it to fruition.

Detroit 2006 marked a special point in time for Kia Motors,’ Schreyer said when he unveiled the production car at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Very few people, even those inside Kia, realised what a big moment it was when the Soul concept first appeared. It looked like a flight of fancy…until now.

For our customers, it’s a lifestyle statement. It creates a strong emotional link between them and us. It will be our first car where customers will check the colours and accessories before they check the price. It is our accelerator for an image shift towards design.

Soul’s style is tough not rough. It has a high bonnet with rounded forms, bulging wheel arches and a wide track. A body side crease joins the wheel arches, while the roofline appears to slope gently down to the tailgate. The beltline, which rises from the front wheel arch to create a gentle wedge shape, continues under and around the third side window. A decorative air vent in each front wing incorporates sleek side repeaters and abuts the beltline to intensify an image of quality.

Vertical combination lamps set into a body colour panel and featuring clear outer lenses dominate the rear. One of the early concept sketches that helped to define what Soul was all about featured a wild boar. With its strong, wide shoulders, a determined look in its eyes and distinctive sloping back, this animal has one extra, and unusual, attribute – a practical backpack.

The rectangular tailgate reflects that backpack profile, a design element which has remained since those early inspirational designs that included the ‘wild boar’ – it underlines practicality and reflects the urban nature of Soul.

The Soul is 4,1 metres long with a wheelbase of 2 550 mm. But the key dimensions behind the Soul’s striking appearance are vertical measurements. Overall height is 1 610 mm, the base of the windscreen is 135 mm higher than a typical compact car, the hip point is 120 mm higher and the ground clearance is raised by 45 mm to 165 mm. Luggage capacity is 340 litres with the rear seats upright, similar to the KIA Rio hatchback.

The Kia Soul is all about creating a car that demonstrates Kia’s passion for automotive design. The Soul will get Kia talked about and generate customer appeal that will translate into strong sales, projects Zian van Heerden, sales director for Kia Motors South Africa.

And Kia is getting attention – car rental companies do not buy product that is not going to withstand the rigours of the business. Kia SA has sold 1 000 Picantos to Avis this calendar year and 1 000 to Imperial Car Rental. Hertz has taken a mix of 200 Picantos, 250 Sportage, 250 Sedona and 150 Rio.

First impressions will make a big impact and there will be several unique aspects to the experience of sitting in the Soul, says Gregory Guillaume, chief designer, Kia Motors Europe. The tall doors and high-mounted seats make for easy access, while the laid back dashboard, triple dial instrument cluster and thick-rimmed steering wheel create an unusual combination of spaciousness for passengers and cosy-ness for the driver to generate a very special ambience inside this new Kia.

Every Kia Soul in South Africa will be equipped with a factory-fit RDS Radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, plus USB, AUX and iPod connections in the centre console, speed rated volume control, six audio speakers – one in each door and two tweeters – a 112 watts output, innovative PowerBass technology and a rooftop antenna. The Soul is fitted with steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Standard features on the Soul in South Africa will include: 16-inch alloy wheels, 205/55 R16 tyres, body colour side mouldings and door mirror housings, electrically operated front and rear windows, front driver and passenger air bags, head restraints and three-point seat belts for all five occupants, remote release filler flap and rear screen wiper.

Additionally it has electric power steering, air-conditioning, tinted glass with shaded windscreen band, central locking, ‘battery saver’ to prevent draining of the battery, heated door mirrors, special Soul Glow seating fabric, a rear spoiler and front and rear fog lights.

Powered by a 1,6-litre petrol engine – a 1,5-litre diesel will follow later this year – featuring electronic multi-point fuel injection and continuously variable valve timing, the all aluminium 16-valve unit generates a maximum power output of 91,2 kW at 6 300 r/min and 156 Nm of torque at 4,200 r/min.

Kia claims acceleration from rest to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds going on to reach 177 km/h.

The Soul is fitted with a fully independent front and twist-beam rear suspension system designed to deliver responsive handling and a supple ride. At the front, mounted on the same sub-frame that supports the engine and transmission, the MacPherson Struts have co-axial coil springs, offset for smooth operation, together with offset kingpin geometry and a 4-degree castor angle.

At the rear, the Soul’s suspension is also sub-frame mounted and employs a transverse torsion beam axle with trailing arms. The coil springs and dampers are mounted separately to ensure smooth operation and minimal intrusion into the cabin/trunk space.

Nitrogen gas-filled shock absorbers, tuned to best suit specific market requirements, are standard fit for both the front and rear suspension systems for optimal damping performance and body control.

A four-channel, four-sensor, anti-lock braking system is fitted as standard. The system incorporates an electronic brake force distributor, helping to distribute braking force evenly between front and rear wheels.

The new KIA Soul will kick-start the second major change in perceptions of our brand in recent times and will have an enormous effect on our sales in South Africa, says Levin. With the introduction of the cee’d, our first car designed and manufactured in Europe, we brought about a qualitative revolution for our brand and started the process of changing the way KIA is viewed by customers.

The KIA Soul will retail at R189 995 and includes a 4 Year / 90,000 km Service plan.

Hyundai Unveils Blue2 Concept in Seoul

2011-04-12T10:03:00.001-07:00

Hyundai has pulled the sheets off its Blue2 FCEV Concept at this week's Seoul Motor Show, offering a preview of its plans in the hydrogen-powered alternative fuel race.

Aimed at getting an early foothold in the FCEV Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle market, the Blue2 is named to represent Hyundai's Blue-Drive eco brand and the chemical symbol for hydrogen gas, H2.

Power for the Blue2 is provided by a 90kW electric motor and, according to Hyundai, it will return the equivalent of 2.8 l/100km when compared to a regular petrol engine with the same output.

To help it achieve those figures, the Blue2 is also fitted with low rolling-resistance tyres and alloy wheels designed to improve aerodynamic performance.

On the styling front, the Blue2's Intersected Flow design represents a significant departure from Hyundai's current fluidic sculpture look.

Hyundai describes the new design approach as sporty and futuristic, its exterior designing flowing into the interior, with an asymmetrical dashboard and seats that are designed to allow easier entry and exit - helped further by automatic doors.

Interestingly, Hyundai says the Blue2's styling is also a blueprint for future sedans. Watch for future Hyundai models to begin showing hints of the Blue2 Concept.

Hyundai Hires Former GM Exec Shannon as U.S. Marketing Boss

2011-04-12T10:02:00.001-07:00

Hyundai has tapped a General Motors veteran as its new U.S. marketing chief, filling a spot that has sat empty for more than seven months.

Steve Shannon was named vice president of marketing for Hyundai Motor America on Wednesday and will officially take his position on April 18, Hyundai spokesman Chris Hosford said.

Shannon, 52, spent more than 25 years at GM and was most recently executive director of marketing for Cadillac. He held that position from 2008 until March 2010 when he was cut in one of several executive shakeups under former CEO Ed Whitacre.

Shannon takes over a marketing department that has overseen memorable campaigns recently, including the Hyundai Assurance campaign that let Hyundai buyers get their money back if they lost their job and the "Hyundai: Uncensored" campaign that captured reactions of consumers impressed by the quality of Hyundai vehicles during test drives.

Hyundai marketers also signed Oscar-winning actor Jeff Bridges to do voice-overs for all of Hyundai's television ads.

Clever marketing has helped Hyundai boost sales from about 401,000 units in 2008 to more than 538,000 last year and increase U.S. market share from 3 percent to 4.6 percent in the same period.

Shannon's hiring comes after GM nabbed Hyundai's two previous marketing chiefs last year.

First to go was Joel Ewanick, the high-energy marketing executive and brainchild behind the Hyundai Assurance campaign. Ewanick left Hyundai for a brief stint at Nissan last March before being tapped to head GM's U.S. marking department in May. Ewanick's successor at Hyundai, Chris Perry, was then hired by Ewanick last August to lead Chevrolet's marketing department.

Shannon's resume includes leadership roles in marketing with Saturn, followed by senior posts at Oldsmobile, Buick, Saab, Hummer and most recently Cadillac.

Hyundai CEO John Krafcik said in a statement that he's "delighted" to have Shannon on board.

Toyota Lexus – most popular imported car in Korea

2011-04-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

Toyota Lexus is on its course to become the best-selling imported car in South Korea successively for the second year beating German automaker BMW.
BMW had held the top position in South Korea for six consecutive years since 1999, but since last year the Japanese automaker Toyota’s Lexus took the lead. The increase in sales of Lexus was attributed to Japanese brand’s aggressive promotions that particularly targeted affluent housewives in Seoul.
Toyota sold 5,183 Lexus sedans in South Korea in the first 10 months of this year; BMW lagged with sales of 4,931 units. Imported car market in South Korea went up by 32 percent in 2005; Sales are expected to expand more than 10 percent this year to 34,000 units, according to the Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association. Car Dealers in South Korea say BMW has failed to adjust its red-tape marketing strategy in this surging imported automotive market.
Toyota Korea recently launched its much anticipated Lexus RX400h Hybrid SUV featuring the revolutionary Lexus Hybrid Drive System. Based on Toyota’s second generation hybrid synergy drive, the RX400h hybrid is not only fuel efficient but this Lexus hybrid SUVÂ has great power; it can produce up to 270 horsepower with its front mounted 3.3 liter V6 internal combustion engine pooled with front and back electric motors.

Officially Launching 2010-2011 Hyundai Sonata YF in Korea

2011-04-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

- Hyundai’s sixth-generation Sonata encompasses new fluidic sculpture design philosophy
- Features 2.0 Theta II MPi engine, 6-speed automatic transmission
(Note: All specifications and details in this release are based on the Korean domestic model)
(Seoul, Korea) Hyundai Motor Company’s all-new Sonata, being introduced today, is expected to shake up the world’s mid-size sedan market with its daring design.
The 2010 Sonata adopts Hyundais new fluidic sculpture design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies, the new Sonata will further elevate the Hyundai brand.
The Sonata will set a new standard for world class mid-size sedans with state-of-the-art technology, superior build quality and emotional design, Euisun Chung, Hyundai’s Vice Chairman said at the launching ceremony for the car today in Seoul.
The new Sonata will raise Hyundai’s brand values.

The ceremony, held at a trendy riverside cafe, was attended by more than 200 VIPs, company executives and media members.
Sonata has been the perennial best-seller in Korea since the first generation model was launched in 1985. The sixth-generation Sonata will continue this successful tradition with impeccable quality seen today in other Hyundai premium models, such as the Genesis and EQUUS.
Hyundai began developing the new Sonata in 2005 under the codename YF (Note: The car may be launched under a different name in some regions). The project took 4 years and 450 billion won (US$ 372 million) to go from concept to customer.

Although it is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Sonata name as the mid-size car has been Korea’s most popular sedan. Applying a new design aesthetic of fluidic sculpture, the 2010 Sonata pursues a younger and sensuous image in its interior and exterior profiles. Inspired by nature, the fluidic sculpture tries to reflect sophistication and dynamism in the shape of the vehicle and will serve as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.
The outer design of the new Sonata exudes a voluminous look that creates character through the refined and harmonized lines. The interior has a dynamic look that matches the exterior while not compromising comfort or convenience. The Sonata is available in nine exterior colors, from Remington Red to Blue Black to Espresso, satisfying the diverse tastes of younger customers.
The new Sonata delivers powerful performance through its 2-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine Max output 165ps, Max torque of 20.2?·m. Delivering the highest fuel economy in its segment at 12.8 kilometers per liter, fuel economy is more than 11% improved compared with today’s Sonata. Furthermore, all engines are offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission for heightened performance.

To meet the most stringent automotive safety and crash requirements, the Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel while featuring six standard airbags.
In addition, safety has been upgraded with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control including Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions?an industry first in this competitive segment.
The new Sonata comes with a three-piece panoramic sunroof, giving a sense of openness and freedom as well as a stylish look. The Parking Guide System (PGS) allows drivers to avoid obstacles during parallel parking or when driving in reverse. The Dimension premium sound system offers high-quality sound in three types of modes to satisfy customers’ wide-ranging musical tastes.

The Mozen system, a telematics service that debuted in 2003 in Korea, has evolved to become more sophisticated, offering more diverse and upgraded multi-media and IT functions. The newly applied Mozen Premium Wide Navigation system provides drivers with a faster communication service through the third-generation WCDMA wireless network. For two years, it also offers free safety services such as an SOS and anti-theft tracking service. The audio-visual functions have been upgraded with the 8-inch wide screen and JBL Premium Sound system.
In the new Sonata, Hyundai offers a wireless vehicle monitoring service?another industry first– through the Mozen Autocare service, linking the vehicle’s electronic control systems to a monitoring center. The center checks various components for errors, informs the driver of the analysis, and provides directions to nearby service centers, saving time for drivers.
Hyundai revealed it aims to sell 60.000 units of the 2011 Sonata sedan in its home, Korean market by the end of this year, while next year, Hyundai plans to double that number.

Hyundai will continue to produce Sonata at both of its overseas manufacturing plants, located in Alabama, US and China. Production of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata for the US market will begin early next year, while production in China will commence in the beginning of 2011. From that year, combined Korean and overseas production of new Sonata is expected to reach 450.000 units annually!
Pricing for the US-market Sonata will be revealed closer to its official US debut, scheduled for NAIAS 2010. In Korea, Sonata will be priced from 21.3 million Won (US$17.600) for a base 2.0L model and top out at 25.95 million Won (US$21,450) for a fully-loaded 2.0L model.

A Korean car's second life

2011-04-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Via Venturebeat, I read an article about the upcoming all-electric SUV and SUT from Phoenix Motorcars.

And I could immediately recognize the electric vehicles are based on the Actyon and Actyon Sport from Korea's Ssangyong Motor.

The electric SUV will be quite remarkable: Plug the car into your normal 220V outlet for 6 hours, and it will go more than 100 miles, with the 0-60 being about 10 seconds. Can't wait to see this electric version of Actyon in action.

2011 Hyundai i30 Trophy Edition

2011-04-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Australia has announced a special edition 'Trophy' version of the popular i30 model in recognition of its outstanding success in this country.

The five-door 'Trophy' hatch and wagon based on the fuel efficient 2.0-litre petrol SX models offers some exterior and interior enhancements to create an exclusive and attractive package.

These exclusive touches include 16-inch alloy wheels in a titanium-grey finish (including matching full-size spare wheel), a sporty rear spoiler (hatchback model only) and fog lamps recessed into the lower front bumper to match the restyled headlights.

Interior-wise there's now cruise control as standard while the rest of the cabin has further enhanced style with leather wrapped steering wheel and matching transmission gear knob.

The i30 and i30cw wagon 'Trophy' limited editions offer a comprehensive list of standard features including air-conditioning with pollen filter, remote keyless entry with alarm, power windows and mirrors; full AUX, USB and fully integrated iPod® connectivity as well a chilled glove box, flexible space efficient seating and ample in-cabin stowage areas.

As per the standard i30 range, the 'Trophy' model also comes equipped with safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-skid Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Hyundai Active Locking Operation (HALO), six airbags and 'anti-whiplash' front head restraints.

The colour palette for the special edition 'Trophy' is limited to four just hues: Ceramic White, Shine Red, Vivid Blue and Hyper Silver. 500 each of i30 'Trophy' and i30cw 'Trophy' vehicles will be available.

Prices start at $21,490 plus on-roads for the 2011 MY i30 'Trophy' 2.0-litre petrol 5-speed manual.