Kia Motors launches hybrid concept Car : – Kia Motors America launched new Ray plug-in hybrid concept Feb. 10. The car, unveiled during the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The result is the Kia Ray, a plug-in hybrid sedan that combines a laundry list of eco-friendly features with a futuristic design.
The plug-in hybrid is based on the platform of the Forte sedan and features a combination of 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and 78 kW motor. According to Kia, the concept boasts a 50-mile electric-only range and economy of 202 mpg.
It was designed at Kia’s California design center. Kia says it doesn’t have any plans for a mass market hybrid, but will start testing gas and diesel hybrids in Britain later this year.
That includes several ground-breaking vehicles — such as the all-new 2010 Forte, Forte Koup, Soul and the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento — that are redefining the automotive landscape.
Kia says the Ray will achieve an eye-popping 202 mpg and will be able to travel up to a whopping 746 miles before needing to be refueled.
Ray features a typical concept car interior complete with “floating” white leather seats, mesh door panels and a push-button transmission. Kia also notes that the floor is covered in everybody’s favorite renewable resource, “100 percent earthy mocha wool.”
Common standard features include Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as other safety and performance features that would be upgrades from other manufacturers.
Kia did not indicate if or when the Ray will be available for sale.