The new Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDi turbo diesel has beaten an array of diesel and hybrid rivals to top the fuel efficiency stakes in the Greenfleet class of the prestigious Panasonic World Solar Challenge. The i30 CRDi consumed just 3.2L per 100km and emitted just 97g of CO₂ per kilometre over the 3,000km journey from Darwin to Adelaide – outperforming not just Toyota’s Prius hybrid but also diesels from Peugeot and Audi and even a BioBike.

The i30’s accomplishment is all the more noteworthy because it is Australia’s newest and most affordable diesel passenger car, its retail price of $21,490 in SX trim offering a saving of over $15,000 compared to the less fuel efficient Toyota Prius.

“For many years, Hyundai has brought the latest technology within the reach of ordinary Australians. Here, we’ve proven that the new i30 CRDi is not only the most affordable diesel in Australia – it’s outstandingly fuel efficient as well,” said Kevin McCann, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hyundai Motor Company Australia. “The i30 is a more practical and affordable alternative to expensive and complex hybrid cars, delivering better fuel efficiency and significantly reduced CO₂ emissions.”

By comparison, the Leaseplan Toyota Prius consumed 5.6L per 100km and emitted 146g of CO₂ per kilometre, and the Peugeot 207 HDi consumed 3.9L per 100km and emitted 118g of CO2 per kilometre. Meanwhile the Team Ethanol SAAB BioPower (85% Ethanol and unleaded petrol) consumed 9.3L per 100km and emitted 148g of CO₂ per kilometre.

The Hyundai team, which consisted of Wayne Eckersley – ex F1 mechanic to World Champion Alan Jones – and automotive and motoring expert, John Cadogan, drove the i30 during the seven day trip, which included stops in regional and outback centres such as Katherine, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Port Augusta.

The i30 CRDi, which launched to market at the beginning of October, introduced Hyundai’s first turbo-diesel engine in a non-SUV passenger car. The i30’s 1.6 litre diesel uses a common rail injection system with variable turbo gate for maximum efficiency, while its Electric Assist Steering System saves fuel by minimising energy loss compared to conventional hydraulic power steering.

“Each year HMC globally invests over $6 billion in research and development, and as the fastest growing car company in the world we’re committed to furthering innovation and technology in our cars,” concludes Kevin McCann.

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