The Hyundai Universe (hangul:현대 유니버스) is a heavy-duty luxury coach manufactured by the truck & bus division of Hyundai. Introduced in November 2006, it is primarily available as luxury hi-classic tourist buses. It is related to its sibling, the second generation Kia Granbird since 2007.
| Hyundai Universe | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai Motor Company |
| Production | 2006–present |
| Designer | Hyundai Motor Company Design Center |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Bus |
| Body style | Single-decker coach |
| Platform | Hyundai Bus Chassis |
| Doors | 1 (passenger bus) 2 (city bus) |
| Related | Kia Granbird (2nd generation) |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 5/6-speed manual (Hyundai or ZF) 6-speed automatic (ZF) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 5,850 mm (230 in) 6,020 mm (237 in) 6,120 mm (241 in) 6,625 mm (260.8 in) (Prime EX/Noble Ex) |
| Length | 11,650 mm (459 in) 11,780 mm (464 in) 12,020 mm (473 in) 12,520 mm (493 in) (Prime EX/Noble EX) |
| Width | 2,495 mm (98.2 in) |
| Height | 3,340 mm (131 in) 3,385 mm (133.3 in) 3,535 mm (139.2 in) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Hyundai Aero |
It is distinguishable by a front 'Universe' badge by Hyundai's global standard luxury coach, but the common Hyundai badge is luxurious bus design usually used on the rear.
Its principal competitor is the Zyle Daewoo Bus FX series, and BX212.
Design
editIntroduced as the successor to the Hyundai Aero, the new model was developed in a period of 3 years under the project codename: PY.
Unlike its predecessor, the Universe has been developed with Hyundai's proprietary technology and was fitted with a monocoque body to enhance structural rigidity and provides lightweight body construction. This contributes to a reduction in vibration and better roll over protection. Furthermore, disc-brake equipped versions would also benefit from the Electronic Stability Program including ABS and ASR. The Universe also features modern dynamic styling, sporting a sleek aerodynamic look, accentuated by optional spoilers. Driving ergonomics were also improved as well as greater durability to extend service life.
Superior power and performance is delivered by Hyundai's 235-340 hp Q-engines coupled with 5-speed manual gearbox. A cleaner and economical Euro-III compliant engine is also offered; the new electronically controlled Powertec D6CB engine capable of 410 hp is fitted with a 6-speed ZF6S1600 automated gearbox as a standard, but also available is a 380 hp version with 5-speed manual gearbox. In 2008, Euro-IV compliant engines were added up to the range following the development of the new D6HA and Powertec D6CC engines, with outputs ranging from 380 to 425 hp. Carbon footprint conscious operators could also opt in for alternative fuel engine such as the CNG powered Q-engine with 340 hp.
The model lineup includes “Classic” and “Luxury” trim levels in the standard deck “Space” variant, while the “Noble” trim level in the high deck “Xpress” variant stands at the top of the range. Additional trim levels for Korean domestic models includes “Comfort” and “Elegance” for the Space variant as well as “Prime” and “Noble Queen” for the Xpress variant. The “Limousine” trim level introduced for VIP class is the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The difference between each trim levels lies primarily on the features adapted per application such as aesthetics, engine power output, suspension type, passenger capacity, and interior configuration. The Universe is also offered in right-hand drive orientation and can also be equipped with an on-board restroom, wheel chair lift, or an emergency door.
Models
edit
The Universe was designed by Hyundai Motor Company Jeonju Design Center. It was based on a rebadged Hyundai Bus Chassis. Starting in 2019, a long-axis model called EX was released. The variants include:
- Space
- Comfort: successor to Aero Space LD
- Classic
- Elegance: successor to Aero Space LS
- Luxury (2006–2020)
- Xpress
- Prime: successor to Aero Hi-Space
- Prime EX (2020–present)
- Noble
- Noble Queen: successor to Aero Queen Hi-Class
- Noble EX (2019–present)
- Prestige
Refresh
editUnveiled on 22 January 2019, the refreshed Hyundai Universe is the first coach model remained to use Hyundai's commercial vehicle chassis, that also shared with the basis of the refreshed Kia Granbird from 2020. It also comes with Blue Link connected services. It features a restyled grille instead of Hyundai's cascading grille, restyled headlamps with I-shaped LED tech, and restyled tail lamps with also an LED. The interior also features a restyled entertainment system, and the dashboard retains a large color instrument cluster, and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
The powertrain of the refreshed coach is a Powertech 12.7-liter diesel engine paired to both manual and automatic transmissions.
See also
edit
External links
edit- Official website (New Premium Universe, Global)
- Hyundai Universe Launching Show
- Hyundai Universe Images
- Hyundai Universe at the Internet Movie Cars Database
