Summary
- Kia plans to offer plug-in hybrids with 60 miles of electric range in the future
- Current Kia PHEVs can cover around 30-34 miles on electric power
- The increased electric range aims to cater to Americans who travel an average of 42 daily miles
- Kia’s model PHEVs could provide the desired range in about two years
- Audi’s plug-in hybrid offers 88 miles of electric range, showing the technology is advancing
Article
Kia plans to offer plug-in hybrids with 60 miles of electric range in a "couple of years"
Kia America’s chief operating officer and executive vice president, Steven Center, recently shared that Kia’s plug-in hybrids may soon offer up to 60 miles of electric range. Currently, Kia’s PHEVs provide around 30 miles of electric range, but the company is looking to double that number to appeal to a wider range of consumers.
Kia aims to increase its presence in the plug-in hybrid vehicle market
In addition to focusing on all-electric vehicle development, Kia is working on expanding its footprint in the plug-in hybrid vehicle market. By offering more battery-assisted cars that are more fuel efficient when plugged in regularly, Kia hopes to attract consumers looking for increased electric range in their vehicles. The goal is to provide a maximum range of 60 miles while running on battery power.
Advances in battery technology are making 60-mile PHEVs possible in the near future
With advancements in battery technology and new vehicle platforms designed to accommodate larger battery packs, Kia’s 60-mile PHEVs could become a reality in as little as a "couple of years." According to Steven Center, the 60-mile figure is based on the total daily driving distance for Americans, which averages 42 miles. This significant increase in electric range would make Kia’s PHEVs more appealing to a wider range of consumers.
The 2025 Kia Sportage PHEV boasts an electric range of 34 miles
The 2025 Kia Sportage PHEV is equipped with an all-electric EPA-rated range of 34 miles, making it a suitable option for drivers with short daily commutes. A study by the Maryland Transportation Institute and the Center for Advanced Transportation Technology Laboratory at the University of Maryland revealed that the majority of trips made by Americans in 2021 were shorter than three miles, indicating a potential market for high electric range PHEVs.
Audi’s recent plug-in hybrid offering showcases the potential for high electric range
Audi’s facelifted A3 hatchback in Europe features a 25.7-kilowatt-hour battery that provides an impressive WLTP-rated electric range of 88 miles on a full charge. This demonstrates that reaching and even surpassing 60 miles of electric range on a PHEV is within reach with current technology. The A3 can drive on electricity at speeds up to 87 miles per hour and supports DC fast charging at up to 50 kilowatts.
Conclusion
Kia’s plans to offer plug-in hybrids with 60 miles of electric range highlight the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in the electric vehicle market. With advancements in battery technology and new vehicle platforms, achieving higher electric ranges in PHEVs is becoming more feasible. This increased electric range could make Kia’s PHEVs more appealing to consumers looking for a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly driving option. As Kia continues to innovate and develop its electric vehicle lineup, we can expect to see more efficient and high-performing PHEVs on the market in the near future.
Read the full article here
