South Korean vehicle manufacturer KIA Motors have come up with a concept hybrid car named the Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid. As the name suggests, the vehicle can be plugged into a power source to charge a built-in battery.
This battery can then be used to power up the engine on its own for a specified distance, or used to boost the gasoline engine for reduced fuel consumption.
Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid –Â Uniquely Designed
The Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid has a uniquely designed aerodynamic exterior meant to reduce the drag coefficient to an impressive figure of 0.25. In addition, the front headlamps retract inwards when the vehicle is in motion to create additional air intakes for engine cooling and also to further reduce aerodynamic drag.
When the vehicle is traveling at higher speeds, the hidden rear-spoiler deploys to provide the stabilizing downward force. The roof of the Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid is covered by solar cells that actively provide charge for the inbuilt lithium battery and also power fans inside the vehicle to provide a cool ambient temperature even when the vehicle is parked.
Interior Features
Inside, the vehicle is capable of accommodating four passengers and the driver. The interior is aesthetically designed with neatly upholstered seats. The cabin is lit up by natural sunlight thanks to a uniquely designed translucent roof that also contains solar cells. For onboard audio entertainment, the vehicle will come fitted with the latest GreenEdge entertainment system by Infinity Audio that produces superior audio output while limiting energy consumption.
Engine and Electric Range
The main power of the Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid vehicle is a 1.4-liter engine. The four-cylinder engine is capable of producing up to 153-horsepower. To supplement the engine, the car is fitted with a lithium-ion polymer battery that powers a 78-kWh electric motor capable of driving the vehicle on its own for 31 miles on a single charge.
The Ray Plug-in Hybrid is capable of clocking a top speed of 109 mph.
Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid – Expectations
The Ray Plug-in Hybrid is still a concept car currently. KIA Motors have remained tight-lipped on with plans for mass production. All we can do now is wait patiently.
Conclusion
Judging by the above figures released by KIA Motors it is clear that it is very energy efficient. It seamlessly combined the power from solar cells, the in-built lithium-ion battery and the gasoline engine to produce an Eco-friendly hybrid marvel.
The final engine power output is capable of competing with that of most current fully gasoline-reliant cars. The safety features are however not clearly outlined in the Kia Ray Plug-in Hybrid vehicle. This may prove to be deal-breaker for some modern customers who put safety first when buying a car.
