Hyundai scoops design awards
Hyundai has received three awards at the Automotive Brand Contest, with the i30 triumphing in two categories.
The New Generation i30 scooped the Best Interior and Best Exterior gongs, while the Best Concept title was awarded to the i-oniq show car.
Both of the models were designed in Russelsheim, Germany, and the i30 came in for particular praise, due to its exterior styling, which advances the brand's fluidic sculpture philosophy and creates a sense of constant motion, even when stationary.
The interior also marks a significant leap from the original i30, and matches the exterior for visual impact and utilising higher quality materials in the cabin.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai i-oniq made its debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing new technology and design which present an impression of the company's future intentions.
The new car is also known by its codename, HED-8, and is characterised by gentle feature lines and muscular surface treatment, which convey the essence of both the exterior and interior of the car, while the futuristic interior design combines a driver-orientated cabin layout and high levels of passenger comfort.
Allan Rushforth, senior vice-president and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: "Recognition from the German Design Council is further evidence of the transformation in Hyundai design in recent years."
"Styling influenced by fluidic sculpture has added emotional appeal to our products that still retain the rational characteristics that have long underpinned our brand's success. New Generation i30 is the best example yet of our focus on conceiving vehicles that match the aspirations of European consumers, as part of our product localisation strategy," Mr Rushforth added.
Last year, Hyundai won the Best Exterior award at the inaugural Automotive Brand Contest for the i40 wagon, which is also designed in Europe and aimed squarely at European buyers.
Posted by Craig Salter