Kia Forte LPI hybrid Electric Vehicle
Kia is bringing the Kia Forte LPI gas/electric mild hybrid to the Korean market beginning in August. The first-ever mass produced hybrid from Kia, unveiled this week under the new Eco-Dynamics sub-brand, shows the automaker's push to release lower emissions and higher mileage vehicles.
Also announced were plans to bring their first full-hybrid to the market within the coming years. Possibly based on the Optima, the hybrid could hit the street by late 2010. A hydrogen fuel cell car could also become available by 2012.
The new car uses a 114 hp 1.6-liter liquified petroleum injected (LPI) engine in combination with a 20hp electric motor. These two units combine to give the car a 41 mpg rating (5.8 liters per 100 km). The motor runs off new lithium polymer batteries made by LG Chem. LG Chem is supplying similar units for the Hyujndai Sonata and Elantra hybrids, and they are also making battery packs for the Chevy Volt.
Stylistically, the Forte LPI has some different design elements when compared to its non-hybrid siblings. Larger air intakes and odd-shaped fog lights are built into the front bumper. The grille also takes on a new design, possibly to become a common thread amongst the Eco-Dynamics line. A new rear bumper is present on the hybrid, while rear lights, now with LEDs, look a little "unusual."
The new Kia Forte LPI goes on sale later this year in Korea, with possible expansion to China. No plans yet to bring the car to Europe or Stateside.
Source: kia world
Press Release (Click to expand)
Kia Motors introduces Eco Dynamics brand and LPI Hybrid for Korean market
Kia Motors has introduced its new environmental brand ‘Eco Dynamics' and an LPI Hybrid based on its Korean market Forte saloon as part of its commitment to the development of earth-positive vehicles.
The Eco Dynamics brand was unveiled at Kia Motors' domestic sales headquarters in Apkujeong-dong, Seoul, along with the company's blueprint for developing low-emission, fuel-efficient vehicles.
The new brand communicates Kia's unique strategy and vision for vehicles with a reduced environmental footprint. It reflects the determination of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group to propel Korea into the ranks of the world's four leading producers of green cars by expanding investments into eco-friendly vehicles and R&D.
The announcement of the green label also signifies the adoption of environmental management as a new growth strategy for Kia.
Vehicles with new, environmental technologies including hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be identified with the unique Eco Dynamics badge.
Kia has already showcased the c'eed ISG model year in Europe. The ISG (Idle Stop and Go) features an auto start-stop system for enhanced fuel efficiency and is a first for a Korean car.
Kia will unveil its first hybrid vehicle, the Forte LPI hybrid, on the Korean domestic market this August. Kia plans to introduce a mid-sized, full hybrid vehicle in 2011 and follow up with early commercialisation of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in 2012.
The Forte LPI hybrid car runs on both Liquefied Petroleum Gas - a popular fuel in Korea - and electricity. It employs a hybrid system which supports the internal combustion engine during motor starts and acceleration.
Equipped with a 1,600cc Gamma LPI HEV engine, the Forte LPI hybrid boasts maximum power of 114ps and maximum torque of 15.1kg.m. It offers drivers unrivalled savings with a fuel efficiency of 17.2km/litre with a CVT transmission. When converted to a standard petrol engine that figure would be 21.5km/litre.
The Forte LPI hybrid is also the first car in the world to use lithium polymer batteries. Compared to nickel-metal-hydride (Ni-MH) batteries used by competitors, lithium polymer batteries provide more power in a lighter and compact package, enhancing fuel performance and freeing up more space.
The car will be shown to general public at the Seoul Motor Show 2009 that opens on April 2.
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Anthropos
March 24, 2009 6:06 PM
