Kia’s push for innovation in the electric vehicle market extends beyond just all-electric vehicles. The company is also focusing on expanding its presence in the plug-in hybrid vehicle segment. As of now, Kia’s plug-in hybrids offer a decent electric range of around 34 miles on a full battery charge. However, Kia aims to double this range to a remarkable 60 miles in the near future.
The move towards increasing the electric range of plug-in hybrids is driven by the growing demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. With advancements in battery technology and the ability to integrate larger battery packs into conventional gas-powered cars, Kia is confident that achieving a 60-mile electric range in PHEVs is achievable within the next couple of years.
Steven Center, Kia America’s chief operating officer and executive vice president, shared this exciting development during the Los Angeles Auto Show. He mentioned that the 60-mile electric range target is based on engineering statistics and is intended to cater to the daily driving habits of Americans. On average, people in the United States travel approximately 42 miles per day, making a 60-mile electric range highly practical for everyday use.
Studies have also shown that a significant portion of daily trips in the U.S. are short distances, with over 50% of trips being shorter than three miles. Additionally, only 2% of trips exceed 50 miles. This data further supports the need for vehicles with extended electric ranges for daily commuting and errands.
The possibility of achieving a 60-mile electric range in PHEVs is already being demonstrated by other automakers. For example, Audi recently unveiled the facelifted A3 hatchback in Europe, which boasts an impressive WLTP-rated electric range of 88 miles on a full charge. This showcases the potential for PHEVs to offer substantial electric ranges while providing the flexibility of using gasoline for longer trips.
In conclusion, Kia’s ambition to enhance the electric range of its plug-in hybrids to 60 miles reflects the company’s commitment to offering sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. With the rapid advancements in battery technology and the increasing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, Kia’s future PHEVs are poised to deliver a compelling mix of electric range and gasoline-powered flexibility. Stay tuned for more updates on Kia’s electrification efforts in the coming years.