KIA HYBRID

Kia is developing a version of its Sportage SUV with a ‘mild’ hybrid powertrain that will go into production later this year. It will be followed next year by a Ceed hatchback with the same system. The Sportage will use a diesel engine and a starter/generator combined with a 48v battery to reduce emissions by up to 4% on the new WLTP test.

It’s all part of Kia’s electrification strategy which over the next seven years will see five new hybrids, five plug-in hybrids and five all-electric vehicles launched plus a fuel cell car. An on-sale date for the Sportage hybrid in the UK will be announced later this year.