The EV target revival comes despite the company reporting strong annual profit margins and sales in 2024. But Kia is sticking to its plan of launching 15 new electric vehicles in world markets by 2030. The lineup will feature the EV2, EV4, EV5, and three electric vans.
Focus to shift towards hybrid vehicles
Due to the high demand for hybrid cars, Kia is now focusing on strengthening its electrified combustion technology. The South Korean automobile manufacturer aims to sell one million hybrid cars by 2030, a whopping rise from the projected 490,000 units in 2025.
Kia has reaffirmed its intention to launch 10 hybrid cars (including plug-in hybrids) across all segments – from compact to full-size vehicles – by the end of this decade. Meanwhile, the automaker will increase its worldwide production capacity by 17 percent to reach a total of 4.25 million vehicles.
What benefits does India draw from it?
Earlier, MD and CEO Tae-Jin Park, Kia India unveiled that the auto manufacturer is considering bringing in new technology as an alternative to diesel.
Nevertheless, it will go on selling diesel cars in India if regulations allow. Kia, already selling robust hybrid cars in other markets across the world, is said to be developing hybrid technology into its 1.2L and 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engines for India.
The Kia Seltos Hybrid, Carens Hybrid, and Sonet Hybrid will be prime contenders for the Indian market.
New Engines for ICE and Hybrid Models
In addition, the South Korean carmaker is working on a new modular gas engine, which will drive both ICE (internal combustion engine) and hybrid cars. It will be a 2.5L TGDi 4-cylinder, turbocharged unit, serving as a generator in upcoming Kia extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs).
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This engine will be 12 percent more efficient than the current engine and provide 5 percent improved thermal efficiency. Kia's new turbo engine will also deliver improved acceleration in hybrid cars. It will also have improved transition from the electric motor to the petrol engine. Kia's new hybrid system will provide 4 percent improved efficiency for the electrified variants.
Conclusion
Kia's strategic shift toward hybrid vehicles reflects its evolutionary strategy in meeting changing global auto trends. As it commits to a launch of 10 hybrid vehicles, including the highly anticipated Kia Seltos Hybrid, by the year 2030, it is poised to meet increasing demands for electrified vehicles while reserving flexibility for markets such as India. The introduction of new, more powerful engines and the application of hybrid technology to current models reflect Kia's dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility. As the automaker expands its manufacturing capacity and introduces a wider portfolio of hybrids, customers can anticipate a lively combination of performance, fuel economy, and green capability in Kia's future lineup.
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