Many folks are shopping for hybrid vehicles and other more efficient options thanks to record gas prices. If you fall into that category and ran across a Hyundai model listed as a “Hybrid Blue” example, it may seem a bit confusing. Hyundai’s Blue Drive technology is a special set of tech advancements that make its already super-efficient hybrids even more efficient. If you’re looking for a non-plug-in hybrid that still achieves upwards of 50 miles per gallon, a Hyundai Blue Drive hybrid vehicle may be your best choice!
Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive technology uses smart management features to optimize fuel economy
According to Read Motor Group, a U.K.-based Hyundai dealer, Hyundai’s set of Blue Drive technologies offer a real and practical solution to an impressive amount of fuel efficiency optimization and reduction in harmful emissions.
The first bit of tech found in the Blue Drive lineup is Intelligent Stop and Go. This is a feature found on many modern vehicles for good reason. The system automatically shuts the engine off when it comes to a full stop, then starts it again when the vehicle needs to move. While it may seem trivial to some, Hyundai claims it reduces fuel consumption by up to 15 percent.
Another Blue Drive efficiency contribution comes in the form of using electric power steering. Traditionally, power steering uses an engine-driven hydraulic pump to pressurize the power steering rack system. Instead, the Blue Drive hybrid offerings from Hyundai use an electric motor to assist with steering ease that draws only from the battery and not from the engine. This, again, is pretty commonly found on many vehicles.
One of the standout features of Blue Drive Hyundai models that isn’t as widespread is the special alternator management system. This system only activates the alternator when the vehicle is decelerating or has power to spare. So, when under load, the alternator does not draw power from the engine, meaning it takes less energy to get the car up to speed, up hills, or through other high-load scenarios.
Blue Drive cars also use special low-rolling-resistance tires to minimalize road friction and increase fuel economy. Combining all of these technologies with an eco-driving gauge so drivers can do their part to optimize fuel economy makes for some serious savings at the pump.
How much gas mileage does a Hyundai Hybrid Blue vehicle get?
The fuel economy of the Hybrid Blue lineup depends mostly on the vehicle it’s in. However, all of the Hybrid Blue Drive lineup vehicles offer remarkable fuel efficiency for their class.
The 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue sees some pretty remarkable EPA fuel economy numbers. It gets 50 mpg city and 54 mpg highway for an incredible overall rating of 52 miles per gallon. That’s nothing short of amazing for a mid-size sedan you can fit the family in.
The sedan isn’t quite roomy enough? The 2023 Hyundai Tuscon Hybrid Blue is a compact SUV that packs some fuel-efficient punch. It has EPA ratings of 38 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. Again, that’s a pretty remarkable number for a small SUV, especially in the city.
Finally, the most outstanding Hyundai Blue Drive model is the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Blue. It sees ratings of 58 mpg city and an astounding 60 mpg highway for a combined rating of 59 mpg overall. That is virtually unheard of for a hybrid vehicle that doesn’t require charging.
Overall, if you’re looking for something to drastically reduce your trips to the pump, a Hyundai Blue Drive hybrid is definitely something worth considering. Combining these fuel economy figures with the company’s outstanding 10-year powertrain warranty makes these vehicles hard to overlook when shopping for a hybrid!
RELATED: Plug-In Hybrids: 5 Advantages to Consider
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