Ssangyong's Hybrid Vehicle Concept Revealed

Fossil fuel powered vehicles are too polluting and expensive to run and electric vehicles are slow and don’t offer a decent operating range, so the way forward right now, as envisioned by a lot of auto manufacturers, is a blend of both these technologies.

Hybrid vehicles pack the punch of a conventional gas-powered car, while ensuring a reduction in emissions, not to mention the fact that you can ride it on electricity alone, when you’re not in a hurry. This is the reason we see auto manufacturers come up with hybrid vehicles at motor shows and this year’s 2012 Paris Motor Show will be no different.

Front view of SsangYong e-XIV. (Picture from: http://www.cardekho.com/)

SsangYong has announced that the company will present the all new e-XIV (Electric-Exciting user interface vehicle) – a compact crossover powered by a hybrid engine at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. The vehicle is expected to be the hybrid version of the XIV-2 concept, which was revealed at this year’s 2012 Geneva Show.

Rear view of SsangYong e-XIV. (Picture from: http://www.cardekho.com/)

The car characterized by the dynamic stance, the wraparound DLO contrasted by large, trapezoidal C-Pillars, descending roof lines and sleek and efficient LED lights. The flanks feature prominent wheel-arches which at the rear give form to distinctive lower surfaces.

Bird-eye view of SsangYong e-XIV. (Picture from: http://www.carbodydesign.com/)

The eco-friendly powertrain uses an electric motor coupled with a small internal combustion engine which serves as a range extender. The concept features a panoramic glass roof that betters visibility, while also offering space for solar cells to generate renewable electricity for the onboard battery.

The B-Segment crossover concept is 4,160 mm long, 1,790 mm wide, 1,575 mm high, and has a 2,600 mm wheelbase. Considering the line of unpolished, aesthetically challenged SUVs SsangYong currently sells in Europe and Asia, that may be a bit of a stretch. We’ll find out when the e-XIV debuts in Paris at the end of the month. *** [CAR BODY DESIGN | ECO CHUNK |  DIGITAL TREND | SSANGYONG MOTOR]

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