Rumour: Kia mulling 1.2L & 1.5L hybrids for India

The new hybrid powertrains are likely to be introduced by 2025.

Tae-Jin Park, MD of Kia India, recently revealed that the company was looking into alternate powertrains, including hybrids. If the latest reports are true, then the carmaker may have already begun working on electrifying its existing petrol engines in India.

Reports suggest that Kia is developing strong-hybrid versions of the 1.2-litre and 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines that are currently available in India. The new hybrid powertrains are likely to be introduced by 2025.

Kia’s global portfolio includes several strong-hybrid models like the Carnival, K8 sedan and SUVs like the Niro, Sorento and Sportage. However, these are powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor, which won’t be ideal for a cost-sensitive market like India.

Localisation of the battery and motor components would enable Kia to bring its hybrid tech to India, paving the way for models like the Seltos, Carens and Sonet to get hybrid options in the future. However, it is said that a new compact SUV (codenamed: AY) could be Kia's first hybrid model in India. It is expected to be positioned between the Sonet and Seltos.

Source: Autocar India