- hyundai has revealed an electric concept that it's calling the prophecy, and it's smooth and aerodynamic in line with the company's new design language.
- with the concept, hyundai envisions an ev that's efficient but with a refined and comfortable interior space.
- the prophecy's look is very different from the 45 concept that hyundai unveiled in 2019, which had more angles than curves.
the late great prince once boldly proclaimed, "prophecy is what we all have to go by now." we're inclined to think that the designers over at hyundai should put that quote on their wall and abide by it, because this concept, aptly named prophecy, is a stunner.
hyundai’s prophecy ev concept was slated to make its debut at the geneva auto show, which was canceled over the global coronavirus situation, so we didn't get to take a look at it in person. we do have pictures though, and we're thoroughly smitten with the design of the car. the korean automaker expresses its latest design philosophy, sensuous sportiness, while expanding on the example set by last year's 45 concept.
but while the 2019 concept had hard lines, creases, and wedge shapes, the prophecy goes to the other end of the spectrum, featuring smoother lines and sensuous curves. the prophecy's rear tapers off to a decidedly aesthetically pleasing humpback shape that’s broken only by a functional and tasteful spoiler. it rides on a platform that leverages a long wheelbase and short overhangs in the front and rear to further elevate the smooth look.
the prophecy has design cues in keeping with the fact it's an electric vehicle: the silver six-spoke wheels are shaped like turbine blades. the rear spoiler is made of a transparent acrylic material to generate downforce at speed and to showcase components underneath, including the brake light and the camera. there's also a wide and low front air intake that funnels cool air over the battery packs for battery temperature management and drive system cooling.
hyundai didn't release interior images but says it features low-intensity ambient lighting and wool-based felt carpet. twin joysticks—one on the driver’s door and the other on the central tunnel—take the place of a steering wheel, giving the driver a position of comfort and high visibility. there are also buttons located at the driver's fingertips for such features as the radio and climate control.
naturally, this being a concept, there are semi-autonomous features as well. in relax mode, all passengers can recline and enjoy the view outside thanks to the horizontal pillar-to-pillar display and the wing-shaped dashboard. in this mode, the dashboard swivels to create more interior space and a seat position from which passengers can enjoy content shown on the display. other modern features include the use of environmentally conscious materials and a clean air purification system.
perhaps most relevant to hyundai watchers is the concept's headlights and taillights, which appear to be pixelated, in the same style as the taillights of the bugatti divo. hyundai says these pixelated lights will carry forward onto future models as a signature design element.