Kia Venga EV Concept, Kia Ray plug-in hybrid at Geneva 2010
In addition to revealing its all-new Sportage model, Kia have taken the wraps off two environmentally-friendly 'EcoDynamics' (a new sub-brand for the Korean manufacturer) models at the Geneva Motor Show today with the world premiere of the electric-powered Venga EV concept and the European debut of the Kia Ray 'plug-in' hybrid sedan concept car.
"Kia's powerful presence at Geneva will embody three premieres and highlight our brand's stylish design and world-class engineering. With the all-new Sportage, we have created a five-seater crossover with maximized customer appeal. It is urban-friendly and fully in tune with changing consumer expectations and demands," commented Hyoung-Keun Lee, President, Kia Motors Corporation.
"During the current global economic downturn, Kia products have maintained their appeal to consumers and enabled us to increase our market share in many regions. Last year we delivered more than 1.65 million vehicles to customers, an increase of 20 per cent.
"This year, I am confident that the all-new Sportage, new Venga, new Sorento, Soul and the increasingly popular cee'd and Forte ranges, will lead a successful Kia sales drive around the world to attract more and more newcomers to our brand."
The all-electric Kia Venga EV concept car is the same size, and offers the same space, as its conventionally powered sibling - now on sale across Europe. The Venga EV features an 80kW electric motor that also develops 280Nm of torque.
Showcasing Kia's new 'EcoDynamics' range of fuel-saving vehicles, the Venga EV includes a twin-pack 24kWh battery using innovative LiPoly (Lithium Ion Polymer) technology. A driving range of 180km is possible from a single charge while 0-100km/h is managed in 11.8 seconds (top speed is 140km/h).
The battery can be charged to 80 per cent of its capacity in under 20 minutes, while full charge can be obtained in eight hours. The front-wheel drive Venga EV fits its electric powertrain within the existing engine bay, while the battery pack is located under the floor of the cargo area.
After making its world premiere at the recent Chicago Motor Show, the Kia Ray Concept (as picture, top) has today made its European debut at Geneva.
The sleek, futuristic body combines sophisticated looks with keen aerodynamics (0.25Cd) to further improve fuel efficiency. Ray can travel more than 80km solely on electric power or up to 1,200 kilometres on a single tank of fuel, thanks to fuel economy of 1.398L/100km.
The Kia Ray concept also features innovative curved hexagonal roof-top solar cells which provide a trickle charge that helps operate a cooling fan to reduce cabin temperatures when the vehicle is parked.
Under the bonnet, Ray is powered by a 1.4-litre direct injection four-cylinder engine and a 78kW electric motor which can be used individually or combined depending on driving conditions. Ray is also fitted with Kia's new LiPoly batteries. Its top speed is 175km/h.
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