For sustainable and efficient protection of our natural environment, the Eco-technology research institute is striving to develop green vehicles by minimizing impact on the environment throughout their life cycle; from the acquisition of raw materials and manufacturing, to the vehicles‘ use and disposal.

A catalytic converter is a device that helps prevent air pollution by eliminating the harmful substances in exhaust emissions of gasoline-engine vehicles. We developed a three-way catalytic converter for gas-powered cars that satisfies the super ultra low emission vehicle (SULEV) regulation in the US. For diesel engines, we met Korean and European regulations for low-pollutant emissions by developing a diesel particulate gas filter that can dramatically reduce exhaust emissions, a major cause of air pollution.

To fulfill our social responsibility from production to dismantling of ELVs, satisfy related regulations in Korea, Europe and Japan, as well as conduct research into relevant technology, we built an ELV treatment plant. The plant began operations in October 2005 and is capable of dismantling 4,200 units a year. Built on a site of 10,910㎡ with floor space of 4,960㎡, the plant is doing its part to create a more efficient resource-recycling society by supporting design for easily recyclable vehicles, responsible disposal of ELVs, development of recycling technologies to reduce waste, and dissemination of related information.

In response to the growing problem of environmental pollution, the Hyundai·Kia Motors R&D Center is developing lighter vehicles to reduce exhaust emissions and eco-friendly materials that are also safer for people. In this way, we are fulfilling our duty and role as an environmentally responsible global company.

As a vehicle‘s fuel consumption and exhaust emissions are proportional to its weight, much effort is being placed on making automobiles lighter. Lighter automobile weight also leads to decreased rolling resistance, less vibration and noise, and less inertia, which in turn result in enhanced steering stability and power performance. Therefore, lighter automobile weight has significant ripple effects. Lighter weight can be achieved through the development of optimal design technology, component performance maximization technology, and application of light materials technology. Of these, application of light materials such as new, high strength steel materials, aluminum, magnesium, plastics and composites can produce the most significant results. Optimal materials are selected, applied and tested according to the function and location of each automotive component.

Hyundai Motor is continuing to improve environmentally-friendly auto parts by using ecological materials. Some of the Elantra LPi Hybrid parts used plant derived bio-plastics. Bio-plastics absorb CO₂ during the material forming process and can cut CO₂ emissions for the entire process by more than 40% compared to conventional plastics made from petroleum