[Mediapen=Kim Sang-jun] Hyundai Motor launched Sonata Hybrid equipped with world’s first Active Shift Control(ASC) technology.

ASC applies new control logic software to the Hybrid Control Unit(HCU), which then controls the electric motor to align the rotational speeds of the engine and transmission. This ultimately reduces gear shift time by 30%.

With the synchronization, ASC not only improves hybrid vehicle’s acceleration performance and fuel economy, but also the durability of the transmission by minimizing friction during a gear shift.

Recently, eco-friendly hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity as an alternative to diesel vehicles. This trend will help boost Hyundai hybrid car’s domestic sales and export.

ASC is not the only world’s first technology introduced by Hyundai this month. Earlier this month, they introduced the world’s first Continuously Variable Valve Duration(CVVD) technology. 

CVVD regulates the duration of valve opening and closing according to driving conditions, improving both engine performance and fuel efficiency.

This technology will first be equipped on Sonata Turbo which is to be launched in August. The new Sonata Turbo will also be topped with G1.6T-GDi Engine, a 2.0 gasoline turbo unit with 180 horsepower, to improve fuel economy and acceleration.

An executive of the automobile industry commented “The two new technologies introduced by Hyundai is very innovative and applicable.” He added that these technologies will pave the way for Hyundai becoming an innovative enterprise.

He also stressed that Hyundai should extend cooperation with other global companies to further enhance competitiveness, as the global trend in the automobile industry is joint R&D.