2010 Kia Cerato now available as LPI Hybrid

Kia Motors dealers in the UAE still haven’t gotten around to selling the 2010 Cerato compact sedan yet, but in its Korean home market where it is known as the Forte, Kia is already offering their first commercial hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), the Forte Liquid Petroleum Injection (LPI) Hybrid.

The LPI Hybrid boasts “a superior fuel efficiency rating of 17.8 km/l” and “CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km” which apparently qualifies it as a Super Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

The new car utilizes a 112 hp 1.6-litre Gamma LPI engine with 148 Nm of torque, and an independently-developed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as well as a hybrid system comprising of an electric motor, inverter, converter and 180V lithium ion polymer battery, all of which adds 20 hp and 104 Nm.

Both the engine and electric motor are activated when the ignition is turned on but only the engine will run when cruising. When decelerating, the car utilizes a special regenerative braking function to convert energy that is normally lost into electricity that can be stored in the battery.

The hybrid system is also equipped with Kia’s Idle Stop and Go (ISG) function, which automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is idle to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions. ISG functions when the driver applies the brakes after running the car for more than two seconds at speeds of 9 kph or higher.

The application of a front/rear bumper skirt, aluminum wheels and garnish-type rear spoiler, in addition to the use of an exclusive cover for the lower part of the engine room and centre floor, result in lowered air resistance of 0.26 Cd, compared to 0.29 Cd for the gasoline-powered Forte.

The vehicle’s full-digital SuperVision gauge cluster relays critical information to the driver and includes an “Eco Guide” function which encourages the driver with an “Eco Driving Point” icon to adjust fuel consumption and drive more sustainably.

Although Kia has no plans to market this vehicle in the GCC, feasibility studies are being conducted to assess consumer interest and potential demand in overseas markets that possess liquid petroleum refueling infrastructure.

The standard Kia Cerato will debut in the UAE soon, as stocks of the cars have been spotted in Dubai. The car is already on sale in Oman and other GCC countries. For estimated local prices and specs, visit the Kia Cerato buyer guide.