Kia launches the Kia Forte LPI Hybrid for the Korean market!
Korean-based auto maker Kia, which is now sitting pretty high in my “best car designer” list, has launched its very first mass production hybrid vehicle. Based on the gorgeous looking Kia Cerato Forte, the Forte LPI comes fitted with a hybrid system that features a 20HP “pancake” electric motor that is sandwiched between the engine and transmission. The motor receives power from a lithium polymer battery pack made by LG Chem, the same company that makes battery packs for the Chevy Volt.
Compared to nickel-metal-hydride (Ni-MH) batteries used by competitors, lithium polymer batteries provide more power in a lighter and compact package, enhancing fuel performance and freeing up more space.
There is also an engine start/stop system to further optimize fuel efficiency. This “eco” Forte features a 114 hp 1.6-liter Gamma HEV liquefied petroleum injected (LPI) engine. With both systems, the Forte delivers 100 kilometers with 5.8 liters of fuel. The auto maker also revealed that it will produce a mid-size hybrid (possibly based on a Kia Optima) by 2010 and a hydrogen fuel cell car by 2012, all under the Eco-Dynamics range.
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Comments
Ceratos are a little retarded in design and feel like they are built in a shed by a monkey.Can you honestly tell people you drive a kia (even worse…a hybrid kia) and expect to keep your dignity? Get a refrigerator instead. Although the koreans sure know how to make some good looking girls.
wow the models are steaming hot, man i would buy a shitty litle hybrid kia just because of them, more pics please!!!!