Kia has unveiled its first mass production electric car, the Soul EV, at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. The EV will also be Kia's first all-electric, zero-emission car to be sold in the U.S.A. By utilising a high energy density lithium-ion polymer battery, the Soul EV can travel up to 160km on a single charge. The 360V 96-cell battery has been engineered for high capacity, thermal stability and safety.
To optimise the range of the Soul EV, Kia installed the third generation regenerative system that can capture up to 12 percent of the car's kinetic energy. Owners can choose from four different levels of regeneration - 'Drive' or 'Brakes' modes with the Eco-mode turned on or off. The 'Brakes' setting with Eco-mode on will produce the most amount of regeneration.
The battery of the Soul EV has been designed flat and placed beneath the floor of the car to maximise cabin space. On the outside, the Soul EV also gets an exclusive front end that features a larger grille to accommodate the charging ports, as well as colour accent trims on the front and rear panels, projector headlamps, LED positioning lamps and LED tail lights.
Next in Kia's eco lineup is the Optima Hybrid, which features various enhancements from its predecessor. The front and rear fascia have been updated for better aero efficiency. New wheel designs are now offered, on top of the new front grille andhybrid-exclusive LED front lighting elements.
