Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Hyundai Suicide ‘Advert’ causes a rumpus

It’s not easy advertising your wares and finding the right balance between mainstream and innovative to capture attention, as Hyundai has found out to their cost with an ‘advert’ for the hydrogen powered ix35 FCEV which, rather distastefully, depicts a man trying to commit suicide by running a hose from the tailpipe to the cabin before realising he can’t achieve his aim as the FCEV’s only emissions are water. It’s a proper cock-up from Hyundai – usually so sure-footed with their PR – but, despite Hyundai US putting the blame at the door of Hyundai UK, there’s more to this suicide ‘advert’ than meets the eye. It seems the suicide video was put together by Innocean – a European Ad Agency owned by Hyundai’s Chairman Chung Mong-koo and his daughter, and responsible for much of Hyundai’s marketing output – and was a clumsy attempt to gauge reaction to the somewhat macabre take on the benefits of an FCEV.

BMW to supply engines to Saab, reports say

Saab and BMW AG have agreed on a deal that allows the Swedish carmaker to use engines made by BMW, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter. Saab will initially purchase BMW engines for the 9-3 model that is scheduled for release in late 2012, said the person, who asked not to be identified before a contract is signed. The carmakers plan to sign and announce the pact in Trollhattan, Sweden, on Wednesday, the person said.

Hyundai plots two coupes

By Tim Pollard Motor Industry 17 April 2008 05:18 Hyundai is plotting two different sports cars to replace the Coupe, CAR Online has learned: a low-volume, rear-wheel drive model to raise the profile of the Korean brand, and a more conventional coupe to raise sales. The Genesis Coupe, unveiled at the March 2008 New York auto show and aimed principally at the US market, is being touted as Hyundai's answer to the Vauxhall VXR8. It's a big, rear-wheel drive sports car that's powered by a choice of 306bhp 3.8-litre V6 and 210bhp 2.0-litre turbo.It's the bright red car pictured in the main image in our gallery above.