Set to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this week, the Kia Optima T-Hybrid concept previews a future diesel-electric hybrid version of the Korean D-segment sedan. More than that, it’s the first showcase of the brand’s new “mild hybrid” powertrain that could be applied to future Kia models.
The Optima T-Hybrid (for turbo-hybrid) uses the standard (Europe-only) 1.7 litre CRDi turbodiesel engine as its main source of power, but here it’s paired to a small electric motor and a 48 V lead-carbon battery. The latter is chosen over a lithium-ion unit as it requires no active cooling. It’s also easier to recycle at the end of its lifecycle.
For an extra boost of power, there’s an electric supercharger linked to the engine (on top of the mechanical turbocharger) for improved torque and engine response at low engine speeds. That is if the engine is on, of course, as the Optima T-Hybrid has a zero-emissions electric-only mode at low speeds and cruising conditions.
Also in the mix is Kia’s new automatic stop/start system with a belt-driven starter generator in place of a conventional alternator, which allows for quick restarts with minimal noise and vibration. The fitment of a smaller battery and starter motor also enhances weight distribution and handling.
Power and efficiency figures have yet to be confirmed, but Kia targets a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as well a 15-20% increase in power with the use of this mild hybrid system. The application of this technology is not limited to the Optima alone, of course.
Plans for full mass production (Optima T-Hybrid or other possible models) are still up in the air, but you wouldn’t bet against Kia making it a reality, would you?
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
Led headlamps
This car is bullshit.
Honda City can easily beat it without these fancy technology.
Normal drive can get 18/l!
Oh come on..how can you compare B segment to D segment car? Compare with same class la.
He just meant to bash only..
In this case, we can say Axia is the best and city is bullshit car too since Axia can make 21.6 km/L fuel comsuption.. lol
what are u talking abt….the optima here in msia are the 2.0 petrol version..its a gutless guzzler like all petrols, this optima in these article is the 1.7crdi turbodiesel(sold in Europe)….its FC is way bttr than the ivtec petrol city! plus having more torque!
Sounds like 90s toyota prius hybrid system mix with modern turbo diesel….don’t even think they should use such hybrid route
Sort out your handling and stop inflating your power claims Kia/Hyundai. All your cars handle like boats and qoute big numbers but dont seem to deliver when you put the foot down. All show and no go.
OMG, this one will depreciate 85% within a year for sale to friends or relatove plus no used car dealer will ever trade it
The shameless create more and more user ID to talk kok?
Since you say no one will ever trade in this car, then how you know its market price is depreciate 85%.
If you the same person, the joker name shameless, same question to you, where is RM35k one year old sportage, K5, Sonata, 3008, 5008 that you are saying! lol
this car still looks as good as the first day it debut
Of course la…looks who’s the designer..even Audi still cameo-ing his designs on their car to this date..