Kia Optima Diesel-Hybrid Concept Revealed
Kia is set to debut an Optima concept featuring a diesel hybrid powertrain at this year’s Paris Motor Show.
Earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, the Korean automaker revealed a new diesel hybrid powertrain and now its found a home in an Optima concept called the T-Hybrid. Boasting a 1.7-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired to an electric motor and a 48-volt lead-carbon battery, the Optima T-Hybrid is capable of driving in an all-electric mode at low speeds and when cruising while deceleration helps recharge the battery pack. No specific performance or fuel economy figures have been announced as the powertrain is still under development with Kia also saying that the system allows the use of an electric supercharger in addition to the turbocharger on the diesel engine.
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Expect more details to be revealed when the Kia Optima T-Hybrid makes its official debut at this year’s Paris Motor Show, where AutoGuide.com will be reporting live from the show floor.
“In future, our mild hybrid powertrain could offer Kia customers greater performance and lower running costs, without sacrificing the qualities they expect of a Kia car – enjoyable handling, a comfortable ride and high quality. Demonstrated for the first time in the Optima T-Hybrid, the technology will lower the total cost of ownership of our cars, yet still keep them affordable as an outright purchase for customers,” commented Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe.
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GALLERY: Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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