Kia looks to increase electric vehicles in NZ

Kia is looking to widen its range of electric vehicles (EVs) in New Zealand.

After launching the Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and electric vehicle versions, Kia New Zealand is studying other EV and hybrid options available to provide motorists with more environmentally friendly options.

“Kia has been developing a number of advanced technology electrified options that have already gone into other markets around the world and we are currently looking to see how these could fit within our line up,” Kia Motors New Zealand managing director Todd McDonald says.

Options could include the Kia Sportage hybrid, the Kia Soul EV, along with hybrid versions of the Kia Optima four-door sedan and wagon.

The Kia Niro HEV was widely sought-after following its launch last year, and the fully-electric version of the Kia Niro has proven popular. Despite going on sale a few months ago, a large bank of forward orders was received.

Kia New Zealand released a statement saying Kia has seen a 25% reduction in fuel consumption in the overall Kia range over the last five years and CO2 emissions have also come down.

Limitations on special Lithium-Ion batteries are expected to ease, as battery suppliers increase production capacity.

Once this happens, the Kia range will look to increase the number of hybrids, plug-in and EVs.

Kia is introducing its range of high-tech Smartstream drivetrains to improve fuel economy and performance from petrol-powered vehicles. Smartstream features Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology that will adjust how long a valve stays open for to optimise performance and fuel use.

Kia says CVVD can improve fuel efficiency by 5%, boost performance by 4% and reduce emissions by 12%.