Despite the great advances of technology in the automotive industry, there are those who prefer a balance between taking the positives of the old and the modern to present a vehicle that appeals to all targets. This is the case of Hyundai, which has built an all-electric version of its Heritage Series Grandeur from the 1980s.
The South Korean company stresses that the car was designed as a tribute to the thirty-fifth anniversary of this classic car. The prototype combines its styling from the past with the latest technology, such as exterior LED headlights, while inside, the buttons on the dashboard were replaced by a large flat-screen touchscreen and a modern audio system.
Redesigned side mirrors, covered wheels and sliding cladding were also developed for the model.
Interior Features
Inside, the car received a luxury makeover with burgundy velour upholstery in the front of the seats, reminiscent of the original interiors and chestnut nappa leather in the rear.
It features a single-spoke steering wheel and airplane-style shifter which are designed to maintain the aesthetics of the era. Other details include a hidden drop-down compartment for storing valuables in the center console armrest, and bronze-colored lighting that mimics 1980s audio equipment.
Regarding the mechanics, Hyundai merely points out that it is powered by an all-electric motor, but without giving details about it as was the case with the Pony Concept.
Inspiration from the Past
Hak-soo Ha, Head of Interiors Group at Hyundai Design Center noted that with the Heritage Grandeur Series, designers have reinterpreted an important part of the brand’s history, as a unique combination of the old and the contemporary reflecting the limitless possibilities of the new era.
“As our designers envision the future, it is important to look back at what we have created in the past and find inspiration from it,” the executive added.
The Heritage Series Grandeur’s own sound system was developed by South Korean expert Guk-il Yu and uses 18 speakers. The brand claims that the car’s dashboard and center console have been molded to the acoustics of the concert hall’s architecture.
When introducing this gem, Hyundai described its approach to design as “Newtro” (new + retro).
Written by I Jhonattan González
