Not wanting to miss the train when it comes to new technologies, KIA decided to arm itself with luggage full of useful technology for the future of the brand, instead of flashy concepts.
We started the presentations with the new automatic dual-clutch gearbox (DCT), which according to KIA, replaces its automatic counterpart of a torque converter and 6 speeds.
KIA announces that this new DCT will be smoother, faster and above all an added value to the brand's Eco Dynamics concept, as according to KIA this new DCT promises greater fuel savings.
KIA has not announced which models will receive this new box, but we can say that both the Kia Optima and the Kia K900 will certainly be among the first to receive this new box.
KIA's next novelty is its new hybrid system, quite complex by the way and not as innovative as you might think at first, but clearly oriented towards reliability.
What are we talking about in concrete?
Most hybrids carry lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride batteries. KIA decided to make this approach more orthodox, developing a hybrid 48V system, with lead-carbon batteries, similar to current lead-acid batteries, but with a twist.
The negative electrodes in these batteries are made of 5-layer carbon plates, as opposed to conventional lead plates. These batteries will be associated with the generator set of the electric motor and will also supply electric current to the centrifugal-type compressor with electric actuation, allowing for the doubling of the power of the combustion engine.
The choice of this type of batteries by KIA, has some obvious reasons, as these lead-carbon batteries work without problems in a wide range of outside temperatures, including the most demanding temperatures such as negative temperatures. They dispense with the need for refrigeration, as unlike the others, they do not produce excessive heat during energy discharge. They are also cheaper and 100% recyclable.
The biggest advantage over all of them, and what really makes the difference, are the number of higher cycles they have, that is, they support more loading and unloading than the rest and have less or no maintenance.
However, this hybrid system from KIA is not fully 100% hybrid, as the electric motor will only work to move the vehicle at low speed, or at cruising speed, unlike other systems that provide the performance aspect, combining the 2 forms of propulsion.
This KIA hybrid system can fit any model, and the modular capacity of the batteries can be adapted to the vehicle and will even be compatible with diesel engines. As for the introduction dates, KIA did not want to move forward, stressing only that it will be a reality in the future.
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