New Electric HB20?: Hyundai is developing a new Hatch

A Hyundai is starting to develop a new HB20, which can be hybrid/electric. O HB20 is about to change again, now in its next generation, and there are rumors that more expensive versions may even include an electric system.

Although Hyundai seems to have focused mainly on SUVs, with the launch of the new Creta and other imported models, the brand's strategy also covers the HB20. The company is already working on components for the next generation of the model here in Brazil.

Information obtained from sources close to the brand suggests that this new generation of HB20 could reach the market in the next three years – a reasonable time frame for developing a new product. However, details about the new electric HB20 are still scarce, especially in terms of their design.

Since it was launched in Brazil in 2013, the HB20 It went through four visual changes. The last update, in 2022, gave the HB20 its current appearance, with a more imposing grille and more stylized headlights. These changes helped to differentiate the product from the previous design, which was not well received by Brazilians and critics.

There is speculation that the New model may have features similar to those of Azera It's from Elantra, both sold in other markets. These models have a futuristic and aggressive look, which could give the hatch a more sporty aura. However, we will have to wait to confirm these assumptions.

Furthermore, the launch scheduled for around 2026 or 2027 could bring another important novelty: the possibility of the HB20 be equipped with a hybrid engine. This information was initially released by Estadão. Recently, the Hyundai announced an investment of US$ 1.1 billion in new technologies, including hybrid systems.

One of the products resulting from this investment will be the Hyundai Creta, as previously revealed. About the HB20, it is speculated that the hatch could receive a mild hybrid system, based on the current 1.0 engine TGDI.

It is important to highlight that there is already an application of the 1.0 turbo engine as a mild hybrid in Brazil. O Kia Stonic, for example, is sold with the 1.0 engine TGDI and system MHEV, which replaces the alternator and starter motor with a low-power electric motor and a small battery.

New Hyundai HB20 Hybrid/Electric Projection

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In this case, the electrical system works at cruising speeds and during departures, such as at traffic lights, for example.

A Kia, as part of the group Hyundai, shares technologies between companies. O Stonic uses a more updated version of the 1.0 engine TGDI, which will probably be present in new Hyundai Creta It is HB20.

It is likely that the HB20 continues to be a flex vehicle, capable of using both gasoline and ethanol. Furthermore, the manufacturer must adjust the engine to maintain 120 horsepower and 17.5 kgfm of torque, or perhaps even increase power.