Hyundai reveals new details of Prophecy concept car

Hyundai has revealed new details of its Prophecy concept Electric Vehicle (EV) unveiled last month. 

Rather than being a pure concept, its name refers to the fact that this vehicle teases ideas and features Hyundai will develop in the future.

A classic car design to achieve the ultimate automotive form, the Prophecy is inspired by the vintage cars of the 1920s and 30s, with a smooth, coupe-like design. Sweeping curves and smooth lines set it apart from the angular 45, another Hyundai concept car that debuted at the 2019 International Motor Show.

However, like the 45, it inherits the design language of pixel lights. Its dynamic shape and rear spoiler give it a sporty appearance, and propeller-shaped wheels reduce air resistance.

One of the most unique characteristics of the Prophecy is the steering mechanism. The Prophecy is controlled by dual joysticks located left and right from the driver, one on the centre console and the other on the door trim.

In addition, 90% of the vehicle's functions can be controlled via buttons on the joysticks, so there is no need for the driver to take their hands off the joysticks to change the music. This ergonomic setup is described by Hyundai as a Intuitive Human Interface. It has the benefit of increasing passenger safety as well as visual freedom.

The new Smart Posture Care System (SPCS) allows drivers to enjoy an optimised seating position based on their individual physical characteristics. The driver can either adjust the seat manually to fit their preferences, or allow the car to suggest a 'smart' seating position for them.

In 'smart' mode, the driver enters their height, seated height, and weight, and the car automatically adjusts to the driver's individual physical condition. The SPCS controls the seat, steering wheel, mirror, and Head-Up Display, and is based on medically-verified information.

The infotainment system is integrated into a large screen stretching across the entire front of the vehicle's interior. When not driving, the car can be used as an entertainment space by switching into Relax Mode.

In Relax Mode, the seats recline and the dashboard swivels upwards, creating the optimal seating position from which to enjoy the content shown on the display. As autonomous driving technology progresses, the potential for vehicles to be used as relaxation spaces will grow in importance.

Not only is the Prophecy a zero-emissions electric vehicle, it actually cleans the air thanks to a unique air filtration system with a fine dust sensor built in to the vehicle. With the Prophecy, the air is always fresh, so the windows of dual-pane glass are locked in place.

When the air inside the vehicle grows stale, fresh air is taken in via intake valves at the front of the vehicle and extra air is pumped back into the outside world via two outlets at the bottom of the side doors. This system is significantly more energy efficient than a traditional ventilation system.

After the 45, the Prophecy is the second Hyundai vehicle to be built using the Electric Global Modular Platform - Hyundai's first dedicated EV platform.

A dedicated EV platform opens up a world of possibilities for new design and comfort features. Electric powertrains are much more compact than their internal combustion counterparts, meaning there is no need for a wide front hood or a bulky centre console. This allows automotive designers to reclaim the space for passenger use, and to reimagine the range of in-car experiences.