Futuristic cars to hit Busan Motor Show

Four models to be unveiled in the biennial event for first time in Asia


The sixth Busan International Motor Show, which will kick off on May 24, will feature futuristic concept cars with state-of-the-art technologies, carmakers said Friday.

Some of the concept cars ― prototypes that give consumers a peek at future designs ― will be showcased for the first time in Asia via the 11-day auto fair at the BEXCO in Busan, they said.

Hyundai Motor will unveil several futuristic models, such as the HND-7/Hexa Space, the i-oniq HED-8 and the Santa Fe concept, for the first time in the local market, though they made debut at overseas fairs.

This eight-passenger HND-7/Hexa Space features clever hexagonal seating designed to optimize interior room, with each chair fitting into a honeycomb matrix, allowing passengers to sit three across without feeling cramped or crammed together.

The i-oniq HED-8 features currently available technology as its motive power. With just two doors, a rear hatch, and steeply raked back glass, the i-oniq HED-8 is clearly a coupe.

Kia Motors will showcase the KED-8/GT, a luxury sports concept, for the first time in the Asian market.

“The GT took center stage on the automaker’s stand as chief design officer Peter Schreyer revealed the sleek and muscular four-door sports sedan with a rear wheel drive layout,” a company spokesman said.

The KCD-8 concept of Kia will also be exhibited for the first time in the local market.

Renault Samsung Motors will showcase the Captur concept. It is a model embodying the French company’s new design strategy.

“A sporty crossover with flowing and athletic body language, it conjures up visions of two people exploring the world and previews a forthcoming road car,” Renault said in a statement.

Its Energy dCi 160 twin-turbo engine-concept combines fun driving, enjoyable performance and low CO2 emissions.

GM Korea and Ssangyong Motor are also set to release concept cars with high-end technologies at the motor show.

Aside from the concept cars, Ssangyong Motor and Daewoo Bus will unveil the Rexton facelift and the Restar, respectively, for the first time in the global market.

According to the Busan Motor Show organizing committee, four models, including Hyundai Motor’s Avante two-door sedan, will make their Asian market debut.

The committee said that 22 automakers, including 14 import brands, will attend the 2012 event.

About 170 vehicles will be showcased while the number stayed at 109 in 2010 and 156 in 2008.

The 14 import brands registered for participation are BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Nissan, Infiniti, Mini, Cadillac, Toyota, Lexus, Ford, Lincoln and Maserati.

By Kim Yon-se (kys@heraldcorp.com)