AIMS: Hyundai debuts street and race Veloster concepts

Hyundai showed off a new performance bent at the 2012 Australian International Motot Show in Sydney today.

In addition to SR versions of the i30 and Accent, twin Veloster concepts – one for the street and the other designed for tarmac rallying -- were among Hyundai’s stars of the show.

Both vehicles are based on standard Veloster SR Turbo coupes. The Veloster Street Concept was created in conjunction with local aftermarket modification company, Concord Customs, while the Veloster Race Concept was developed in-house by "a specialist engineering team to withstand the extreme rigour of tarmac rally racing".

The Street features factory matt-grey paint, fluoro-orange accents and illuminated front, rear side and rear splitters. At the rear "a striking matt-black spoiler and turbo-back twin exhausts complete the look".

Hyundai says there have also been "significant under-bonnet and interior modifications". The 'engine room' gets a custom intercooler, revised air-intake plumbing, modified wastegate and a custom three-inch turbo back exhaust.

Suspension mods are also extensive, while a 650-Watt sound system fills the boot and bespoke leather upholstery and re-trimming have been installed.

The Race Concept hints "of possible plans to hit the tarmac in Australia in 2013", says Hyundai in its show release.

Stripped down to a body shell, the Velsoster Race Concept was rebuilt to tarmac rally regs but will also be eligible for Australian Production GT, Australian Rally Championship or Asia Pacific Rally competitions with minor mods, says the company.

Mods include a full FIA/CAMS-compliant rollcage and safety equipment, high-flow exhaust, custom suspension, upgraded brakes and 18x8.0-inch race wheels.

“The Veloster Race Concept is an excellent example of Hyundai’s New Thinking. New Possibilities brand philosophy in action,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia Marketing Director, Oliver Mann.

"The Veloster Race Concept is under study for potential competition and Hyundai expects to make an announcement in 2013," the company added.