CHINESE CHOIR LEADER

4x4magazine | 16/02/2013 | 0 Comments

At its global debut at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show, new automotive brand, Qoros, presents the world premiere of its first series production vehicle and two concept studies provide a clear indication of the new manufacturer’s future model family expansion plans.

Qoros 3 Cross Hybrid Concept, a five-door crossover model features a compact hatchback body and an advanced hybrid drivetrain. It presents the application of signature styling themes introduced on the Qoros 3 Sedan to possible future compact hatchback and crossover models. Striking new styling features emphasise the robust, versatile character of the crossover’s attributes.

The development of advanced engineering innovations is a core strategic activity for Qoros and the Cross Hybrid concept features an advanced hybrid drive system. A three-cylinder 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 97 kW (130 bhp) is installed transversely at the front to drive the front wheels. A 50 kW electric motor above is housed between the luggage compartment floor and the rear axle, it is powered by a LG Chem lithium-ion battery with a maximum capacity of 1.9 kilowatt-hours.
A second electric motor – the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) – is mounted between the petrol engine and the transmission. Its role, as well as to start the petrol engine more discreetly – with less noise and less vibration – than a traditional starter motor, is to charge the rear electric motor’s dedicated battery so that the Qoros 3 Cross Hybrid Concept can operate continuously in all-wheel drive mode. And, during the most demanding driving, the ISG delivers additional power to the front axle, allowing the concept to deliver surprisingly swift performance: zero to 100 km/h is achieved in less than 7.0 seconds (provisional target, not yet verified).

Intelligent control software ensures seamless transition between petrol-engine front-wheel drive, electric motor rear-wheel drive, and an all-wheel drive mode, depending on the most efficient mode to respond to the driver’s inputs and the prevailing road conditions. The Qoros 3 Cross Hybrid Concept can be driven in pure-electric mode at a speed of up to 120 km/h, and for a maximum range of approximately four kilometres (provisional target, not yet verified).