Kia makes claim for fuel economy record

Kia is laying claim to having the world’s most economical hybrid in a drive across the US.

The Korean carmaker has announced that the Kia Niro crossover’s fuel consumption was just 3.07 litres per 100 kilometres for the 5979km from Los Angeles to New York City. Kia employed hypermilers Wayne Gerdes of Carlsbad, California, and co-driver Robert Winger of Williamsburg, Virginia for the trip which used 183.5 litres. The vehicle was not altered in any way for the attempt.

Regular motorists will not drive like the hypermilers who are employed simply to eek out as much economy from a vehicle. Official fuel economy figures for the Niro put it around 4.74 litres per 100km. Of course, Kia are quite happy for their vehicle to be known as a fuel economy world record holder.

‘‘We’re pleased with the Niro’s record-breaking performance,’’ said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning KMA. ‘‘We set out to build a vehicle that offers real-world utility and fantastic mileage, and setting the Guinness World Record title confirms our achievement.’’

‘‘We're pleased with the Niro's recordbreaking performance.’’