Kia Aims for Greener, Lighter Cars by 2015

Whether they are being forced to by governments or being pushed to by buyers, automakers are certainly trying to be greener, and Kia is no exception. 

Kia says that it plans to continue introducing direct-injected engines throughout its line-up and will have a dual-clutch gearbox available soon that will cut fuel consumption by 7%. 

The company also plans to reduce its vehicle's weight by 10% by 2015, which it says will improve emissions by a further 3%.

Kia is also working on technologies for the near future like the Active Eco system that cuts engine torque in certain circumstances to improve economy, and Smart Cruise Control, similar to those used by other automakers, that can slow the car down automatically if it needs to.