Hyundai unveils the Prophecy electric vehicle concept

Hyundai has unveiled a new Electric Vehicle (EV) concept, named the 'Prophecy', expressing the company's latest design language.

The visionary concept expresses Hyundai's latest design philosophy of Sensuous Sportiness, expanding on the era-defining example set by last year's 45 concept EV that stripped away complexity in favour of clean lines and minimalistic structures.

The Prophecy sports an iconic silhouette with proportions that have been inspired by aerodynamic design. Leveraging on an extended wheelbase and short overhangs, Hyundai's designers have achieved what they consider to be ultimate automotive form thanks to a new EV architecture defined by pristine surfaces and pure aesthetics in harmony with functionality.

The application of Hyundai's Sensuous Sportiness design philosophy is evident in the concept's voluptuous side section, which is like that of a perfectly weathered stone. It is cut by a clean and simple curve which extends from front to rear with minimal restraint. The dynamic boat-tail line created by the rear quarter panels appear to propel the car forward even when it is standing still.

The pixel lamp lights, which were first seen on the 45, have been further developed in the Prophecy. This progressive lighting technology is integrated into the headlamp, tail lamp and spoiler, calling to mind the abundant energy contained in the vehicle's battery cells. Pixelated lamps will be carried forward as a signature design element in future Hyundai models.

The Prophecy's identity as an EV extends to the underbody. A wide air intake, installed below the car's bumper, takes fresh air to cool the batteries more effectively.

The interior of the Prophecy underlines the advantages of using a stretched cabin of an EV platform. Instead of a conventional automotive interior, a lifestyle space is offered delivering refinement and comfort for all passengers.

Instead of a steering wheel, joysticks provide a completely new yet reassuringly familiar and intuitive driving experience. By offering two joysticks that can pivot left and right, drivers are able to control the vehicle from a position of comfort. Furthermore, drivers have access to a wide variety of functions which can be selected via the joysticks' integrated buttons.

The use of joysticks also eliminates any visual obstacles for passengers of their view ahead. In a comfortably reclined position, all that the passengers see is the horizontal pillar-to-pillar display and the wing-shaped dashboard. The dashboard of the car also swivels, allowing passengers to enjoy the content shown on the display.