The Blue-Will (who thought that name up?) represents the first-ever plug-in hybrid from the Korean juggernaut that is Hyundai. In addition, the Blue-Will serves as somewhat of a test bed for new technologies on the horizon for Hyundai. It will also feature roof-mounted solar cells to recharge batteries, drive-by-wire steering, lithium polymer batteries, and a thermal generator that converts hot exhaust gases into electricity.

The Blue-Will PHEV is even more interesting in that it's a parallel hybrid system, allowing it go electric-only, internal combustion only, or a combination of both. When operating in

Check out the slick circuit board style solar panel design on the roof, which, along with regenerative braking, help to recharge the batteries. (Photo: Hyundai)

electric-only driving mode, it promises up to 64km on a single charge. The electric motor on the PHEV version is rated at 100kW, which is 70kW larger than the one found in the upcoming Sonata Hybrid. This gives the Blue-Will the capability to go electric-only throughout its operating range. The gas engine is a direct-injected version of Hyundai’s 1.6L Gamma inline-four that generates 152hp, and comes mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Overall, the Blue-Will gets an incredible estimated fuel rating of 2.35L/100km.

Hyundai is positioning the Blue-Will to compete with the upcoming Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, so this will be a car to keep an eye on. Look for it to roll out sometime late next year.