Kia Ray: Pug-in Hybrid presented in Chicago

Formatted and completed text.Kia presented today at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show a prospective plug-in hybrid vehicle configuration with the Ray concept. This Plug-in Hybrid vehicle has a futuristic look and is a four-seat compact sedan based on the Kia Forte platform.

The South Korean brand’s concept was conceived to be a more efficient vehicle, starting with the use of light-weight and recycled materials and the presence of hexagonal roof-top solar cells embedded in the glass roof panel.

The Kia Design Center America was the team responsible for the creation of the edgy and futuristic designed Kia Ray. According to Peter Schreyer, Chief Design Officer, Kia Motors Corporation “It is important to imagine what people will want in the future from a green perspective early in the design process”.

The use of Plug-in Hybrid technology in this concept is also a response to the present goal of reducing environmental footprints. “People want to reduce their carbon footprint without driving carbon copies.  Being green doesn’t have to be an obvious statement anymore and Kia Ray exemplifies a viable blend of modern, eco-minded features for today’s environmentally conscious consumers.”

Powered by an all-aluminum 153-horsepower Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) 1.4-liter engine, the Ray Concept engine is equipped with a permanently-engaged fixed ratio Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), combined with a 78kw electric motor. Ray’s power can be sent to the wheels from the gasoline engine, the electric motor, or both together. This front-wheel drive with a four-wheel independent suspension is equipped “with an engine-power saving alternator management system and a toggle gear-shift up/down indicator to encourage economical driving”.

The Ray Pug-in Hybrid concept was created to drive for more than 80 kilometers with its electric motor fully charged. It features a fuel economy rating of more than 85.9 kilometers per liter, with a range of 1200 kilometres.