Hyundai launches 2011 version of Avante Hybrid in South Korea

Apart from the model year changed, the model gets a facelift and host of other features which includes airbags. Unlike the regular vehicles which run on petrol or diesel, Avante's engine has been designed to operate on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In addition, thecar comes with a small battery package that is used to provide additional power to the LPG engine.

The vehicle, first launched in July 2009, has witnessed brisk sales in Korean automotive market. Hyundai also plans to start sales in other markets but has remained noncommittal till now. In fact, the higher than expected sales of the vehicle made General Motors (GM) to stop and reconsider its earlier decision of not launching hybrid vehicles in Korea.

Back last year, with its joint venture partner Daewoo, General Motors started giving serious thoughts to launch a hybrid vehicle.

The model year change for Avante is first of the series for Hyundai. After this model, the Korean automaker has lined up a number of new and revamped vehicles for the second half of the year. Included among the new vehicles are an all-new Grandeur luxury sedan and a revamped Avante/Elantra compact car.