Improved Ride a Top Priority for Hyundai

Hyundai Motor Co. is developing a suite of technologies aimed at improving the ride and handling characteristics of its vehicles, Automotive News reports. The goal is to introduce the updates by late 2017, possibly under a rumored "N" high-performance sub-brand.

The effort, which began three years ago, now is being led by Albert Biermann, who left BMW AG after a 30-year career that concluded as chief engineer for the company's high-performance M unit. Biermann is the carmaker's second-highest ranking non-Korean executive, behind only Chief Designer Peter Schreyer, who left Audi for Hyundai in 2006.

Engineers at Hyundai's Namyang advanced development center are working on lightweighting technologies and lowering the center of gravity of future models. Other goals include improving body rigidity, reducing yaw sway and instilling firmer, more precise steering.

The Namyang team has begun installing new performance-oriented technologies and systems in a series of concept cars. The first such model, dubbed the RM (for racing midship), was unveiled at last fall's auto show in Busan, South Korea. The concept features a mid-engine layout something Hyundai hasn't done with a production model to optimize weight distribution.

The second concept, the RM15 high-performance coupe, bowed in April at the Seoul auto show. The car features an aluminum frame with carbon fiber and high-strength steel body panels that is 430 lbs lighter than an all-steel design. The RM15's center of gravity is three inches lower than most of Hyundai's current models. AN says Hyundai may show an RM16 concept in 2016.

Production models are beginning to benefit from the program. Hyundai's high-volume Sonata midsize sedan has won praise for its precise steering and firm ride. The second-generation Genesis sedan launched last year features greater body rigidity and a variety of lightweight parts, AN notes. The flagship model also has a multilink rear suspension, improved all-wheel drive and NVH enhancements.