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I am Uniji, an automotive influencer.
Demand for hybrid vehicles has surged as a realistic eco-friendly alternative, especially as electric cars show signs of slowing down.
Recently, the demand for hybrid cars has significantly increased, not just domestically but also in global markets like the US and Europe, where the situation mirrors that of Korea.
The hottest keyword in this year's automotive market is 'hybrid vehicles.'
Particularly noteworthy is the sharp increase in hybrid sales last year, which reached 309,164 units—a 46.3% rise compared to the previous year.
The cumulative sales of hybrids surpassed 839,254 units, marking the first time sales exceeded 800,000.
This year, the domestic automotive market is expected to see even more consumers seeking hybrids, leading to increased sales.
Hyundai Motor Group forecasts a growth rate of about 28%, projecting sales of 480,000 units this year.
Meanwhile, Genesis plans to introduce hybrid models, including the upcoming Palisade 2.5 Gasoline Turbo Hybrid.
The explosive sales of hybrid vehicles can be attributed to the application of hybrid technology in key models and the introduction of various hybrid options.
Last year, popular hybrid vehicles such as the Santa Fe Hybrid and Sorento Hybrid hit the market.
Kia also stirred interest by introducing the Carnival Hybrid, an MPV similar to the Staria.
Genesis and Palisade hybrids are among the various new hybrid models set to launch soon.
Hyundai is also preparing to add a hybrid option to its popular MPV, the Staria, alongside its diesel and LPG versions. The company has completed production facility renovations since last year and is now entering a training phase ahead of full-scale production.
The Staria Hybrid is set to launch in the first half of this year.
The Staria, which debuted in 2021, has consistently sold over 30,000 units annually, securing its position as the third best-selling commercial vehicle in Korea, following the Porter 2 and Bongo 3.
Hyundai is simultaneously preparing for the launch of the Staria electric vehicle while also getting ready for the Staria Hybrid's debut in the first half of this year.
The hybrid model is expected to feature a 1.6-liter gasoline turbo hybrid engine.
The 1.6-liter gasoline turbo hybrid engine is already used in various hybrid models like the Grandeur, Santa Fe, Sorento, and Carnival, with the Carnival Hybrid delivering a maximum output of 245 horsepower and torque of 37.4 kgf·m.
If the Staria Hybrid launches in the first half of this year, it may capture some demand from the Kia Carnival Hybrid.
The Staria Hybrid is currently undergoing final testing and has already been partially revealed during the testing process.
The exterior design mirrors that of the existing Staria, but changes are expected in the vehicle's cluster and infotainment systems.
The most critical factor is the price. The currently available Staria comes in various trims based on the powertrain, including cargo, tourer, and lounge variants, leading to a relatively wide price range.
However, the price range for the hybrid option could expand significantly, with the starting price for a Hyundai Staria Hybrid expected to be at least 30 million KRW (approximately 22,500 USD).
This overall increase in vehicle prices may lead to a greater financial burden on consumers.
Hyundai offers various configurations of the Staria to suit different uses, including the basic model, the Staria Lounge Camper for camping, and luxury options like the Staria Lounge and Staria Lounge Limousine.
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#2024Staria#StariaHybrid
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#StariaEV
