|  The Arnejs, pronounced ‘Ar-nez’ features advanced technology and contemporary design capable of competing with the volume C-segment models of major European car manufacturers. Hyundai’s totally new C-segment car, which will be very closely based on the Arnejs concept, is due to go on sale in the UK in the summer of 2007.
The Arnejs is based on the development plans for the production vehicle FD. It features convincing technology that incorporates a wide variety of state-of-the-art safety features and convenience details, and a very appealing design. The Arnejs´ form language is a continuity of the design language first introduced with the HED-2 Genus concept, which was further developed in order to create a strong brand identity. According to Thomas Burkle, Hyundai´s European Chief Designer, this ‘Dynamic sculpture’ is Hyundai´s new design language. The convex and concave surfaces interact, creating intriguing reflections. The result is a vibrant combination of an athletically defined body, with a broad stance together with an elegant and sophisticated exterior appearance. The main characteristic element is the frontal treatment, with hexagonal front grill (first showcased on the HED-2 “Genus”), and swept-back headlamps that have jeweled high-tech elements for the various lighting functions. A continuation of the windscreen into a wave shaped glass roof then extends right to the 3rd brake light on the spoiler. A dynamic wave shape, sculpted along the shoulder line, characterizes the profile of the “Arnejs.” This creates a combination of an elegant fusion between the glass and metallic elements. The dynamically sculptured look is emphasized by extended, flared wheel arches over purpose designed 19-inch diameter polished aluminum wheels sporting 245/35 R19 low-profile tyres. The flowing silhouette with its tapering roofline emphasizes the sleek overall proportions. Entirely retractable side windows together with the panoramic glass roof provide an experience of multi-sensorial perception normally associated with coupes and cabriolets. Naturally occurring wave patterns formed the major source of inspiration for the interior. The instrument panel demonstrates this theme in the separation between upper and lower dashboard-line. This in turn flows around the major interface control in an “emotional wave form,” starting and ending in the door handle treatment within the door panels. The instrument cluster combines an asymmetrical display graphic with a symmetrical frame-theme. This kind of detail treatment is one example of how to create excitement not just in the macro, but also in the micro cosmos of the “Arnejs” interior.
By eliminating the pillars and designing continuous door panels, the through flow of the “Arnejs” is emphasized, creating a dynamic feeling of lightness. The layer of comfort in which the armrest is floating connects the front with the rear door visually. Formal elements of the door theme are reflected in the centre console, executed in an elegant flowing connection between the gear shift area and the centre arm rest. To create an elegant yet refined high-tech atmosphere the soft waves are combined with elements that show more tension. All details such as the steering wheel, air vents, centre fascia and door openers are executed in high quality materials. Another sample of elegant sculpted art-works is the seats designed and built to wrap around the human body | 