Kia to release Hybrid Rio in 2009
First announced at the ‘07 Salon de l’Automobiles, the Rio hybrid concept car shown by Kia should be a reality by the end of 2009.
Kia hopes to open up the market by providing consumers with a more affordable hybrid. The electric motor works as a helper to the gas engine during start-up and acceleration. It turns off while cruising, and recharges during deceleration. It also is the first Kia to feature CVT and computerized start-stop, which personally, sounds a little wonky.
From Kia’s Press release:
computer-controlled stop/start motoring which switches both engine and motor off whenever the car comes to a standstill for more than a few seconds.
Does that mean it shuts off whenever you’re idling? I would think that would cause a lot of unnecessary wear and tear on the car. I’m tired though, and dealing with two sick kids :( so I might not be getting the point right now. lol Funny how my brain doesn’t function how it used to, when I only had myself to worry about.
The company is claiming a 44% increase in fuel efficiency (to 53 mpg) and a 37% decrease in emissions. I’ll be happy to see how affordable they can offer this technology to people.
*photos from KiaMotors.com
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