Kia outlines ambitious EV model plans

Kia Motors Corporation has shared a glimpse of its global electric vehicle (EV) business strategy, revealing an early sketch of several of the brand’s future dedicated Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). Details of Kia’s future EV product strategy were announced by Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song during an event at the brand’s Hwasung plant in Korea.

Kia reveals all-new electric Niro

Kia Motors has revealed its all-new Niro EV at the 2018 Busan International Motor Show in Korea. The claimed range is 280 miles. In addition to the Niro EV, Kia Motors also unveiled two other vehicles at the show. The Kia SP Concept – first unveiled at the 2018 AutoExpo in India – makes its Korean debut, and hints at Kia’s future SUV design vision. The Kia Stinger GT Wide Body also makes its Korean debut, following its introduction at the 2017 SEMA show in Las Vegas in the USA.

Kia readies 48V diesel mild hybrid powertrain

Kia Motors will introduce its first 48V diesel mild-hybrid powertrain in the second half of 2018. The new ‘EcoDynamics+’ powertrain reduces CO2 emissions by supplementing acceleration with electric power from an additional 48-volt battery and extending combustion engine ‘off time’ using a new Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator unit. Kia says the compact nature of the components means the technology can be integrated into existing vehicle and powertrain architectures without impacting practicality or packaging.

Kia makes three-millionth car in Europe

Kia Motors has manufactured its three millionth car in Europe since production began in Žilina, Slovakia in 2006. The three millionth car to roll off the production line is a Kia cee’d. The car is a fusion white five-door hatchback in ‘GT-Line’ specification, built for a customer in Iceland. It is fitted with a 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbo Gasoline-Direct injection) engine.