The Focus HED-5 i-Mode 2008

The i-Mode is an innovatively styled, eco-friendly & socially adaptive 6 seater vehicle.

i-Mode 6 Seater

The Focus HED-5, ’i-Mode’, is a combination of visionary styling with future technologies and advanced eco-dynamics. It led to a 6-seater monocab study that incorporates high-tech materials, a world premiere seating concept and state of the art communication solutions into a completely new vehicle impression. The i-Mode is an innovatively styled, eco-friendly and socially adaptive vehicle. The imposing mono-volume architecture provides an invitation to travel, explore and relax within the concept of a moving cocoon.

Through the advanced multimedia and entertainment concept developed by LG Electronics, the vehicle becomes an extension of the digital home, allowing passengers to stay connected, communicate and interact in the car and beyond. 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 further personalise the entertainment experience. The advanced developments seen on the i-Mode give a dynamic indication of real possibilities for the near future.

The sculptural profile is mainly characterised by the wedged body side in combination with a generous, rounded rear, giving the impression of a bow under tension. The vehicle portrays a clever combination of convex and concave surfaces directly inspired from nature. These forms have enabled a powerful, dynamic stance to be achieved devoid of aggressive sentiment. The choice of colour and level of finish provides a rich, warm radiance, with an open and almost translucent appearance.

Nature is one of the key influences for the Hyundai design team and new plastic materials have enabled exploration of unconventional and irregular shapes. The fundamental architecture of the exterior shape is symbolised by an external frame embracing the protected volume within, like a shell. This concept also demonstrates the increasing awareness Hyundai has towards environmental issues. Cooperation with Bayer Material Science has seen use of the innovative glazing alternative ’Makrolon’ enabling the car to have extended transparent areas, reducing weight and increasing fuel economy.

Through the innovative door opening mechanism, the interior is exposed as an inviting landscape of softly sculpted shapes and advanced technology in the form of a lounge compartment. The interior represents the concept of an encapsulated social space, an intimate environment where all occupants can enjoy safe travel in comfort, surrounded by sophisticated technology and luxurious materials.

Hyundai’s engineering partner Keiper supported the i-Mode project with the exclusive world premiere of its new and unique Swivel Seat concept, delivering a 6 seater car. The first row passenger seat cleverly rotates to face second and third row occupants. When the seat is turned in a flowing movement, the back rest converts into an equally comfortable seat surface. This is made possible by a power-operated kinematic system.

The integrated seatbelt system - another technically advanced debut - and the adjustable headrest maximise passive safety for passengers in either sitting position. The second row bench slides rearwards to increase comfort and create a social space for communication. This seat concept intelligently avoids problems of complex flexible seat mounting weaknesses.