Hyundai's HED-5 ‘i-Mode' six-seat MPV appears large in person and features certain polarizing features, which seem to mix three concepts into one. Convex and concave surfaces combine with a wedged side profile and a rounded front and rear, to give the appearance of a bow under pressure. But one of the most intriguing aspects are the negatively arching 'A and a half'-pillar and C-pillars, emphasized by almond shaped quarter-lights. There seems to be a conscious attempt not to follow usual conventions, attempting instead to define unique formal identifiers.

Successful elements included the main A-pillar, which integrates neatly into the roofline before sloping backward to the C-pillar and coming back on itself. This is reminiscent of the cantrail treatment of the new Volvo XC60, and the way this relates to the boomerang taillight graphic (which echos the grille mesh aesthetic) is the cleanest and least controversial aspect of the design.

Interior designer Eric Yann Coulouvrat explained how a different interpretation of the Mercedes F-700 concept interior was used for the front passenger seat, which slides and swivels to face rearwards. Streams of blue light-lines give an impression of luxury and become brighter at points where they converge, flowing across the inner door panels. This theme, which continued into the instrument panel where light spilling from cut-away perspex sections lit the instruments, strained at being overly detailed.

The ‘i-Mode' concept marks the second time Hyundai has collaborated with specialist suppliers. Bayer Material Science AG developed materials that are lighter than the glass and metal they replace; LG electronics enabled an array of multimedia connectivity - such as a voiceover IP communication system developed by LG which enabled Coulouvrat to call his colleague and exterior designer, Thomas Salzle, through Skype from the car - and Keiper engineering developed the unique Swivel Seat system. Unfortunately the design seems to have taken Hyundai backwards in its progression (especially compared to the Qarmaq) being a mix-mash of various previous concepts from the Korean firm.

Article key :  Hyundai HED-5, Hed-5-concept, Hyundai-hed-5, Hyundai-hed-5-concept, 2008, 2009.