Heads up... it's the HED-5

Hyundai has used the past few motor shows to unveil mould-breaking concepts, and it continues to push design boundaries with the HED-5, a six-seater MPV design study revealed at the Geneva motor show.

The concept features the world premiere of Hyundai's unique 'Swivel Seat' concept, as well as a new diesel engine with two-stage turbocharging.

The 2.2-litre R diesel engine pumps out a healthy 158kW and a positively stump-pulling 461Nm, and the key to these beefy outputs is a forced-induction system that first passes air through a low-pressure turbocharger, from where it is forced into a high-pressure turbocharger for maximum boost.

Hyundai claims the new engine's specific power output of 72kW/litre puts it in the same league as state-of-the-art turbo-diesels from Mercedes and BMW. Drive is relayed to the wheels by a six-speed automatic transmission.

The South Korean carmaker says mass production of the R Engine is scheduled to begin with the standard (single turbocharged) version in 2009, with the dual-stage turbocharged edition arriving in the first half of 2011.

Among the concept's other USPs is a flexible seating configuration whereby the first row passenger seat rotates to face second- and third-row occupants. The integrated seatbelt system -- billed as another first -- and the adjustable headrest are claimed to maximise passive safety for passengers in either sitting position.

The HED-5 is coated in a 'self-healing' water-based coating developed by Bayer and on this surface "minor scratches magically disappear by themselves". Bayer also developed the 'BayVision' glazing system, which uses 'Makrolon' panes that are lighter than conventional glass. The headlight lenses are also made from the same substance.

LG Electronics developed the advanced entertainment concept, which enables the vehicle to become "an extension of the digital home, allowing passengers to stay connected, communicate and interact in the car".

Access to the web, video games, movies or video calling are all possible through the pop-down touch-screen displays and webcams located within the overhead console. A wireless network enables a selection of cable-free keyboards, game controllers and headphones to keep unruly kids occupied.

The hexagonal grille that fronts the car is said to symbolise Hyundai's new brand identity for Europe and some of the other design cues pioneered by the HED-5 are also likely to filter down to future production models.

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