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Hybrid to cope with every eventuality. Since launching our Optima hybrid in 2011, we have developed a range of outstanding hybrid vehicles that stand out for their efficiency, appeal and quality. More than a flexible technology, this is a range honed to give you room for inspiration.
How a Hybrid car works
A Self-Charging Hybrid car uses a combination of electric power and a conventional combustion engine to deliver remarkable fuel economy, seamless power and lower emissions.
• Hybrids have a battery and engine that support each other when needed.
• There is no need to charge the battery from an external source.
• The battery charges when decelerating or going downhill.
• Hybrids can operate in electric-only mode when at a standstill, at low, constant speed or when decelerating.
Reasons to drive a Kia Hybrid car
There are many substantial benefits to owning a Self-Charging Hybrid car
Lower emissions
Because the electric motor assists with acceleration there is less strain on the engine which helps lower emissions. The electric motor can also take over at low speeds - in stop/start traffic for example. That means the engine isn’t running for as long, so cleaner air for everybody.
Reduced running costs
The seamless coordination of the engine and battery not only provides power but also efficient use of fuel. Using less fuel is not only good for the environment it’s also good for your finances! Improved fuel economy means less money spent on fuel, and less time wasted at the pumps.
Doesn’t require you to make any changes
Not sure about a plug-in vehicle, or don’t have the option of a home charge point? Then a hybrid car might be for you, as you use it like a conventional car. Clever electronics take care of how the energy is used, all you have to worry about is keeping it topped up with petrol.
Relaxing drive
The assistance from the electric motor means the engine doesn’t have to work as hard and that makes for a quieter journey. The added torque also means effortless acceleration for a more relaxing driving experience. Enjoy the performance of two combined power sources funnelled through an automatic or dual-clutch gearbox. The system automatically changes gears swiftly and seamlessly for maximum driving enjoyment.
The all-new Niro Hybrid
The all-new Sportage Hybrid
Sorento Hybrid
How does a Self-Charging Hybrid work?
In terms of how you use it, a self-charging hybrid car works just like a conventional car, there is no need to plug in, simply fill up with petrol at the pumps, and off you go! So what does hybrid mean? It’s pretty simple, along with a petrol or diesel engine, hybrid cars also have an electric motor that is powered by a small battery. The aim of the electric motor is to assist the engine and occasionally drive very short distances on battery power as opposed to driving long distances on battery power alone as a plug-in hybrid or a battery-electric vehicle would.
The battery is charged by recovering energy that would otherwise be wasted when slowing down for example. The battery then feeds this energy to the electric motor to help with acceleration or to drive the car at low speeds. This means lower emissions, better fuel economy and more money to spend on the things you enjoy. Great!
What is it like to drive a self-charging hybrid car?
Very similar to driving a conventional car, but with a few bonuses. The best part is that the car’s clever systems decide how to use the battery and electric motor in the most efficient way possible. You just need to drive as you normally would, while enjoying improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
If you want to have more of a say, you can change driving modes to encourage the car to focus on economy, or if you want a more dynamic drive, you can switch Sport mode. You will also notice that the car is quieter, particularly around town, thanks to the assistance from the electric motor.
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