Kia Motors unveils Forte 5-door with 1.6L GDI turbocharged engine

Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the new Forte 5-door SX equipped with a new 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injected (GDI) turbocharged four-cylinder engine at the Chicago Auto Show. With output of 201 hp (150 kW) and torque of 195 lb-ft (264 N·m of torque, the Forte 5-door SX is the most powerful Forte from KMA to date. The Forte 5-door is expected to go on sale in the third quarter of 2013, and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

2014 Forte 5-door. Click to enlarge.

The Forte 5 door is presented in two trim levels, EX and SX, with two distinct engine choices. The EX is equipped with a 2.0-liter GDI four-cylinder engine putting out 173 hp (129 kW) and 154 lb-ft (209 N·m) of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The performance-oriented SX comes standard with the 1.6-liter turbo, a first for the Forte line.

The1.6-liter engine features double overhead cams with dual continuously variable valve timing to help improve efficiency and performance.

The SX also offers buyers the chance to pick their own gears with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, or they may opt for the 6-speed automatic featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Kia introduces Ray EV in Korea; 2,500 units to be produced in 2012 for use by government agencies

The Ray EV. Click to enlarge.

Kia Motors has introduced Korea’s first production electric vehicle from a major manufacturer. At the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this year, Yang Woong-chul, vice president of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, said that within the group, Kia will focus on electric cars, while Hyundai will work on plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. (Earlier post.)

The new Kia Ray EV is an electric city car with a range of up to 139 km (86 miles) on a single charge. For supply exclusively to the domestic Korean market, the Kia Ray EV is a close relative of Kia’s 1.0-liter gasoline powered Ray CUV, which went on sale in Korea last month. It shares that model’s major dimensions and can share a production line with conventional combustion-engine cars.

The front-wheel drive Ray EV is powered by a 50 kW electric motor and a high-capacity 330V, 16.4 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack that is engineered for a 10-year life cycle and packaged under the rear seat and cabin floor.

Although the Ray EV weighs 187 kg more than the gasoline model, the electric motor’s generous torque—167 N·m (123 lb-ft), an increase of 77%—ensures responsive performance. The EV’s acceleration is brisker than the gasoline model’s (0-to-100 kph in 15.9 seconds), while top speed is 130 km/h (81 mph). Recharging times are six hours using a 220V household supply and 25 minutes in fast-charge mode.

The Ray EV’s automatic transmission offers the driver a choice of two modes while in ‘D’ drive. ‘E’ (or ‘eco’) mode optimizes the delivery of the motor’s torque to achieve minimum battery consumption and maximum driving range. ‘B’ (or ‘brake’) mode can be selected when driving downhill on highways and on mountain roads to maximize braking power.

Bearing the same exterior styling as its gasoline cousin, the Kia Ray EV has four small distinguishing points. A flap in the front radiator grille covers an electricity inlet for a 220V supply for the slow recharge mode; another inlet (for the fast recharge mode) is fitted in the same location as the fuel intake of the regular models; special decals on each front door proclaim the ‘Zero Emissions EV’ message; and 14-inch alloy wheels improve aerodynamic performance by minimizing drag.

Inside, the Ray EV instrument cluster displays electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It is also equipped with an EV-specific navigation system that features a 7-inch screen and provides information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of the slow/fast recharging stations. The display shows a circular shaped area in which the model can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge.

Currently there are 500 slow/fast recharge stations in Korea, and the government plans to increase that figure to 3,100 stations by the end of 2012.

The on-board charger, current inverter, high-low voltage converter and EV-specific VCU (vehicle control unit) each features advances over previous equipment.

Ray EV is also equipped with a new type of regenerative braking system featuring an Active Hydraulic Booster that utilizes the electric motor, instead of the gasoline engine in the regular model, to create hydraulic pressure for the brake system. The result is consistent brake pedal force throughout a wide variety of driving conditions and the ability to harvest excess energy and use it to recharge the car’s battery.

To prevent accidents, Kia has fitted Ray EV with a VESS (Virtual Engine Sound System). When driven at speeds below 20 kph (12 mph) this system delivers a mixture of recorded gasoline engine noises, which are also emitted whenever the car is backing up.

The Ray EV is equipped with six air-bags, and electronic stability features— VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control, to prevent roll-back)—as standard.

During 2012, Kia is planning to manufacture 2,500 units of the Ray EV, which will be provided to government departments and public offices as part of Kia’s long-term real-world research and development program.

Source: Green Car Congress

LA Auto Show: Kia Teases Us With a Hybrid Fit For James Bond

I spoke with Stephen Kosowski, Kia’s manager of long-range strategy & planning about their new Optima Hybrids, then gave him my 2¢ on the sexiest car I’ve seen since the Fisker Karma. Kia delivered their first hybrid Optimas in 2011, and will continue to expand their hybrid offerings. When I asked which country seemed most receptive to hybrids, he explained that all the countries they sell in are increasing legislation to reduce CO2, and they’re finding an increase in consumer interest for cars with greater fuel efficiency. He explained that given the tightening CAFE standards, he can only see hybrids becoming more commonplace.

Kosowski also told me that Kia is planning to unveil a pure electric in Korea very soon, which he hinted will be “far ahead of the competition.” Very exciting news from the company who is gaining market share faster than any other brand. One of his associates told me that their designs, especially the Sol, have helped them catch the eye of new customers, while their reliability and other qualities have made it number one in household loyalty.

Although he teased me by suggesting that the GT could possibly have a 4.0L hybrid motor, the press release claims it will have a 3.3-liter turbocharged Lambda V6 Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This will give the rear-wheel-drive sports sedan a thrilling 395 horsepower and 393.5 pound-feet of torque. Sounds like fun! But with the hybrid drive I wouldn’t have to feel like I’m wasting all that potential sitting in traffic. Which is why Los Angeles is a leading market for hybrids, the perfect vehicle for sitting in traffic then keeping up with 80mph average traffic when it does move.

That little stalk you see where the mirrors belong is actually a side rear view camera and turn signal. As you can see when the doors are opened, the “mirror” is actually an interior screen right where you’d look to check that mirror.

The 2012 Optima comes in three varieties- a 2.4L gasoline direct injection 4 cylinder, a 2.0L turbo gasoline direct injection, and a 2.4L multi-point injection hybrid electric. The 2012 Optima Hybrid has a more fuel-efficient drivetrain and state-of-the-art lithium-polymer battery pack to deliver a claimed 35 mpg in the city and a class-leading 40 mpg on the highway.

The Optima Hybrid under the hood:

Kia, like other foreign brands I saw today, also manufactures in the US. Although their Optima Hybrids are still made in South Korea, the gas-only Optimas are made here in Georgia. Another Optima they unveiled was the Blake Griffin special designed by West Coast Customs for the LA Clippers player. Yes, it’s a basketball themed car, and Blake is an excellent spokesperson. But I moved the seat as far back as it would go and it still didn’t seem like quite enough legroom for the 6’10 professional basketball player.

Source: Gas2.0

2012 Kia Rio, Featuring 40 MPG and Start/Stop Technology

If we asked you to name a car that featured class-leading horsepower with 40-mpg highway fuel economy, the detail-obsessed among you would quickly say the 2012 Hyundai Accent or the 2012 Kia Rio.

If we took that one step further and asked you to name a car that costs less than $15,500, gets 40 mpg highway and comes with a segment first Idle Stop and Go system, that would probably stump the majority of readers.

The answer is the 2012 Kia Rio, which will become the first non-hybrid and non-luxury car to incorporate a fuel-saving stop and start system, although this feature won’t hit the market until some time in 2012.

It’s likely that only automatic transmission models will be so equipped, which is why the price of entry jumps from from $14,150 to “under $15,500.” The lowest priced Kia Rio sedan starts at $14,150 with a six-speed manual transmission, but that price does include a $750 destination charge.

The 2012 Kia Rio sedan with a six-speed automatic transmission will start at $15,250 including destination charge. All models get a Hyundai-sourced 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which gets an EPA rating of 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway while delivering a best-in-class 138 horsepower.

Unlike earlier Rio models, which made features like air conditioning and electronic stability control optional, the 2012 Kia Rio sedan comes well equipped. All trim levels get A/C and a range of safety features that includes anti-lock brakes, stability control and vehicle stability management.

Kia builds the Rio with an eye on the environment as well: 85 percent of the materials used in the Rio’s construction are recyclable at end of life, and the Rio’s seat foam is made from renewable, plant-based castor oil instead of petroleum.



Source: Green Car Reports

Kia readying electric minicar for late 2011 launch

Word from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show was that dividing lines would form in the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, with Kia to focus solely on electric vehicles and Hyundai to develop plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

Under this strategy, Kia will soon kick off small-scale production of the group's first highway-capable electric vehicle under the codename "TAM." The vehicle – scheduled to launch in late 2011 – is reportedly based on the Hyundai i10 minicar. Specs? We'd expect the electrified Kia to sport a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, a 49-kW (66 horsepower) electric motor and be a sub-100-mile electric mini.

The Kia-badged i10 electric will likely differ only slightly from the Hyundai i10 BlueOn prototype that took to the streets of South Korea in limited numbers back in September 2010. According to Kia, the electrified version of the i10 will be a low-volume production model, with output set at 2,000 units in 2012. There's no word on whether or not Kia's electric minicar will ever hit the U.S.



Source: Autoblog Green

Kia to Focus on EVs, Hyundai on plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles

Chosun Ilbo. Within the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, Kia will focus on electric cars, while Hyundai will work on plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, according to Yang Woong-chul, vice president of the group, during a press briefing at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Under the new move, Kia will manufacture the group’s first high-speed electric vehicles under the project name “TAM”. These are scheduled to hit the market at the end of this year. The nation’s first electric vehicle, BlueOn, developed by the group’s research institute in 2010, will be also be rolled out as a Kia brand later this year.

Hyundai has a technological advantage in producing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles as it succeeded in independently developing a 115 kW-class stack, a core component for such vehicles. It also operated two ix35 hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles in Denmark in May on a trial basis.

Kia to offer Picanto Bi-Fuel in Europe

2012 Kia Picanto – Click above for high-res image gallery

Korean automaker Kia has announced that its Picanto Bi-Fuel compact sedan will be exported to select European markets in late 2011. Powered by both liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and gasoline, the Picanto Bi-Fuel was specifically developed to "overcome range-anxiety problems in Europe and to eliminate cold weather starting problems sometimes associated with LPG engine," a Hyundai-Kia spokesman told Ward's Auto (sub. req.).

The Picanto Bi-Fuel hybrid can travel up to 373 miles in LPG mode and, if needed, up to 115 miles in gasoline mode. Kia says that when the Picanto's engine fires up, it's in gasoline-burning mode. However, the Bi-Fuel switches over to LPG within seconds. The fuel system incorporates an underbody-mounted 35-gallon LPG tank and a 10-gallon gasoline tank.

In Korea, Kia sells the Picanto Bi-Fuel as the Morning Bi-Fuel, which is priced from 10 to 12.4 million won ($9,187 to $11,346 U.S. at the current exchange rate), depending on trim level and options. Kia has yet to announce European pricing for the Picanto Bi-Fuel.


Source: Autoblog Green

Kia unveils Naimo electric vehicle concept at Seoul

The Naimo electric concept. Click to enlarge.

Kia staged the world premiere of the Naimo electric concept car at the Seoul Motor Show. Taking its name from the Korean word “Ne-mo”, meaning “square shape”, the Naimo electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV) is the third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year.

Power comes from a PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) electric motor with a maximum output of 80 kW (107 hp) and maximum torque of 280 N·m (207 lb-ft), enabling Naimo to reach a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph). A twin-pack 27 kWh battery is located under the trunk floor and uses LiPoly (Lithium Ion Polymer) technology.

Equipped with this battery, Naimo provides a driving range of 200 km (124 miles) on a single charge. To enhance range, the showcar is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch diameter alloy wheels.

Under a quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the Naimo’s battery can be recharged to 80% of its capacity within 25 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100% power is attained after five and a half hours.

Kia’s design team also made use of innovative technology features to give the car a premium feel and to ensure the car’s exterior remained uncluttered. For example, Naimo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen—instead it employs a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an air wiper function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.

The concept car has no B-pillars and features rear-hinged rear doors to maximize easy access to the cabin, and a three-way split opening trunk, allows versatile access to the load bay for varying luggage sizes.

Naimo will join Kia’s test fleet of hybrid, electric and fuel-cell vehicles being driven in widely varying conditions to develop future production models with zero or significantly reduced emissions.

Also appearing on Kia’s Seoul Motor Show stand will be the Venga and POP electric concepts unveiled by Kia last year at major international motor shows in Europe: the Venga at Geneva and the POP at Paris.

The Venga EV concept car was the same size as Kia’s regular B-segment MPV and features an electric powertrain placed within the existing engine bay and a twin-pack 24 kWh battery located under the trunk floor.

Source: Green Car Congress

Introducing the Kia Optima Hybrid From the Los Angeles Auto Show

Kia Optima Hybrid. Click to enlarge.

Kia Motors Corporation premiered the hybrid version of its new Optima sedan (earlier post) at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Created primarily with the US market in mind, the Kia-developed powertrain delivers an estimated combined cycle fuel economy is 38 mpg US (6.2 L/100km) (city 36.0 mpg, highway 40.0 mpg).

Arriving in Kia dealer showrooms early next year, the 2011 Optima Hybrid is the brand’s first hybrid for North America and uses a full parallel hybrid system to deliver a 40.7% mpg improvement compared with a regular Optima. Acceleration to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes 9.2 seconds, and the top speed is 121 mph (195 km/h).

The 2.4-liter Theta II gasoline engine is mated to a small electric motor and drives the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission without the traditional torque converter. A special clutch is fitted between the engine and motor, enabling the gasoline engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain so that Optima can be operated in zero-emissions, full-electric drive mode from standstill up to 62 mph.

The system’s configuration does not require a high-capacity electric motor and generator, saving weight and cost.

When setting off, the Optima Hybrid operates in Electric Mode. As vehicle speed rises, the Hybrid Starter motor/Generator (HSG) starts the gasoline engine and the clutch is closed, allowing the engine to take over the task of propelling the car. The electric motor switches into hybrid operation and serves as both a secondary engine (during full acceleration and hill-climbing) and a generator to recharge the battery pack as necessary. Whenever the car comes a stop for more than a few seconds, the gasoline engine automatically shuts off to completely eliminate emissions.

When braking, the electric motor converts kinetic energy into electricity for storage in the battery pack. The 8.5 kW HSG also functions as a generator to re-charge the battery pack if the state of charge is low and when the car is stationary. Throughout the entire driving experience, in everyday motoring, under all conditions, the entire hybrid operation is automatic and seamless.

The Optima Hybrid’s 30 kW Interior Permanent Magnet (IPM) synchronous electric motor produces 40.7 ps (30 kW) and 205 N·m (151 lb-ft) of torque from 0-to-1,400 rpm in electric mode. The combined (electric motor plus gasoline engine) hybrid powertrain has an output of 209 ps (154 kW) and 265 N·m (195 lb-ft).

Described by Kia engineers as a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED), the 30 kW IPM electric motor sits within the car’s extended transmission casing (between the gasoline engine and the automatic gearbox) and is an oil-cooled system.

Kia’s Optima Hybrid employs a lithium polymer battery array developed in partnership with LG Chem. The power and energy density of this battery enabled Kia engineers to create a lighter, more compact power pack with a 34 kW output and weighing just 43.6 kg (95.9 lbs) designed to minimize intrusion of the Optima’s trunk space.

The complete hybrid system is controlled by the Optima's Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) which acts as the car’s mastermind and integrates the smooth operation of the engine’s ECU, transmission’s TCU, battery management system (BMS), low voltage converter (LDC). This brain also gives the Optima a Fail-Safe back-up capability and a Limp-home mode.

Optimizing the Theta II gasoline engine. Taking advantage of the instant and continuously available torque from the electric motor, Kia modified its popular 2.4-liter Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20% to maximize its efficiency and achieving a 10% fuel saving over a regular Theta engine. This cycle generates a little less torque, but the electric motor compensates for any loss and consequently, the Optima Hybrid’s overall power and torque outputs are greater than the regular model.

For the Optima Hybrid, Kia has modified the six-speed automatic transmission found on the conventional Optima for hybrid application. The traditional torque converter is replaced with an electric motor and a high-efficiency oil pump. This new gearbox allows EV mode operation, maximizes regeneration of kinetic energy during braking and also provides a more responsive drive than a CVT system.

To maximize the Optima Hybrid’s performance and minimize its fuel consumption, special attention has been paid to its aerodynamics. The car is lowered by 5 mm and new features include an active air flap in the front grille, smooth underfloor panels, low-drag wheels and low rolling resistance tires. The drag coefficient is lowered to Cd 0.26.

Energy and fuel-saving technologies features in the Optima Hybrid include a regenerative braking system, electric—rather than hydraulic—assisted power steering, and an electric air compressor capable of delivering high air-conditioning performance.

Two independent liquid cooling systems are fitted to the Optima Hybrid powertrain. The standard high-temperature circuit manages engine cooling and passenger compartment heating. The second low-temperature circuit cools the hybrid starter-generator and the power electronics. The trunk-mounted battery pack does not require liquid cooling and its temperature is controlled by a simple ventilation fan beneath the rear parcel shelf.

Source: Green Car Congress

Introducing the Kia Forte LPG Hybrid Concept

Among the lineup of concept and production-intent vehicles Kia is showcasing at the SEMA show in Las vegas this week is the Kia Forte Hybrid Concept.

Forte Hybrid Concept. Click to enlarge.

Created by Kinetic Motorsports, the Hybrid Concept combines a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine fueled by liquefied petroleum gas (propane) and lithium polymer battery with accentuated design characteristics, including body panel enhancements and a lowered stance.

The Kia Forte Hybrid Concept is accentuated by cast aluminum alloy wheels and low-rolling resistance tires for improved fuel economy and reduced road noise. On the inside, interior panel treatments feature custom enhancements, while a 1200 watt Infinity audio system will entertain passengers.

Kia Set To Unveil All New Electric Vehicle Concept at Paris Auto Show

Kia Motors has released a few images of the POP, an all-new electric concept vehicle that the company will reveal at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.

POP is a 3-meter, three-seater targeted at the city car segment.

The Kia POP. Click to enlarge.		Detail of front. Click to enlarge.

SK Energy To Provide Li ion Batteries to Kia and Hyundai For EV's

South Korea-based SK Energy Co. will provide Li-ion batteries to Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors for electric vehicles (EVs), beginning with the i10.

The i10 will have a single charge range of 160 km (99 miles) and a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). The i10 is due to be in full scale production in 2011, according to SK.

SK Energy uses a lithium manganese oxide cathode material, mixing in NMC material for stabilization; a surface-modified graphite on the anode; a gel polymer electrolyte; and a ceramic-coated proprietary SK separator featuring low shrinkage and high heat resistance. SK cells have a specific energy density of around 140 Wh/kg.

In October 2009, SK Energy was chosen as a supplier of lithium-ion batteries for a hybrid electric vehicle project for Daimler commercial vehicle subsidiary Mitsubishi Fuso; Daimler holds 85% of Fuso.

SK Energy is also participating in a one-year technology assessment program of its batteries for electric vehicles with the US Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC). USABC will provide 50% of the funding for the project.


Source: Green Car Congress

Introducing the Kia Venga EV Concept

The Geneva Motor Show seems to be a never ending well of new ideas for alternate energy automobiles. Especially surprising this year is the announcement of upcoming hybrid vehicles by high end manufacturers such as Porsche and Ferrari.

From high end all the way to Kia, the hits keep coming as evidenced by this concept called the Venga. This particular model would be a full blown EV and a perfect commuter (112 miles range covers the lion's share of US workers). Let's hope that Kia takes this concept all the way to production.

From Green Car Congress:

The Venga EV concept. Click to enlarge.

Kia introduced its first all-electric plug-in concept car, based on the just-arrived B-segment Venga MPV (earlier post), at the Geneva Motor Show. Venga EV is a front-wheel drive vehicle with the electric powertrain placed within the existing engine bay. The battery pack is located under the trunk floor.

The Venga EV concept car is identical to the regular Venga but features an electric motor producing 80 kW and maximum torque of 280 N·m (206 lb-ft). Venga EV includes a twin-pack 24 kWh battery using LiPoly (Lithium Ion Polymer) technology, and provides a driving range of 112 miles (180 km) on a single charge.

Venga EV is capable of accelerating from standstill to 62 mph in 11.8 seconds, and reaches top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).

Under the quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the battery can be recharged to 80% of its capacity within 20 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100% power is attained after eight hours.

Thew new 98 g/km EcoDynamics cee’d. Click to enlarge.

New cee’d. Kia Motors also revealed a lower CO₂ version of its EcoDynamics cee’d at the Geneva Motor Show. The new model achieves an 11% reduction in emissions down to just 98 g/km, compared with 110 g/km for the current cleanest cee’d.

The five-door hatchback is powered by the new U family 1.6-liter diesel engine, designed and engineered at Kia’s R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany and manufactured in Slovakia. The engine has the latest generation common rail diesel injection system and is fitted with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger.

Maximum power of 90 PS (89 hp, 66 kW) is produced at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 235 N·m (173 lb-ft) is available across a wide rev band, from 1,900 to 2,750 rpm. More than 90% of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm.

In the EcoDynamics cee’d, the engine features improved engine mapping and fuel injection strategy with new software and is fitted with a variable water pump which absorbs less power, a high efficiency alternator with power-saving management system and a Diesel Particulate Filter.

Top gear ratio in the six-speed manual transmission has been raised by 12% from 3.941 to 3.471 to 1, reducing revolutions at high speeds. Both the engine and transmission are filled with low-viscosity lubricants.

Other features and modifications to lower fuel consumption and emissions include:

• Optimized system logic in the stop-start system
• The electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering system requires just 2.69 turns of the wheel from lock-to-lock.
• An Eco Driving Guide—a gear-shift up/down indicator—is displayed in the cabin.
• Aerodynamic enhancements include lowering the suspension by 15 mm; a smooth under-floor is fitted together with airflow deflectors ahead of each tire; and a rear spoiler is positioned on top of the tailgate
• Brake-pad drag on the discs is reduced and the 16-inch diameter alloy wheels are fitted with low rolling resistance 205/55 R16 Michelin tires and are inflated to a higher pressure of 38 psi.

No on-sale date for the revised EcoDynamics cee’d has yet been confirmed.

Leo Motors, Inc. Proves Their Midsize Highway Electric Vehicles

The Leo Motors S 65





Leo Motors has completed testing of its Electric Vehicle (EV) conversion solution on Kia’s popular “Morning” car model. The converted Kia achieved speeds of 100 mph and a range of 150 miles on a single charge, going from zero to sixty mph in six seconds.

Leo’s conversion solution can be used in any type of small to midsize vehicle platform (2,000 cc engines or below), for any manufacturer. Using Leo’s solution, cars can be converted to electric vehicles for real world use both for high-speed highway and city traffic.

The conversion kit solution is the result of evolutionary EV technologies from Leo Motors that focused on the development of the motor system, battery pack, power control, and power management system. Leo’s particular solution set or “kit” consists of a 60kW water-cooled AC motor with controller, 30kWh or 16kWh lithium polymer power pack with multi-battery management system (BMS), and charger.

“This solution is more than a kit to convert small to midsize cars into electric vehicles,” said Robert Kang, Chairman and CEO of Leo Motors. “It is a real world solution available today to the entire auto industry that enables car manufacturers to introduce electric vehicles of their own into the marketplace immediately.”

Leo Motors believes that its solution is superior to the competition as a complete conversion technology as well as on a per component basis. The Leo power pack is made up of eight modules of ten lithium (Li) polymer cells, with each module assembled from ten small Li Ion polymer cells using a BMS. Each module sends voltage and temperature information to the BMS, which controls and enables optimal battery operation under driving and charging conditions. The price of the kit is $20,000 with a 16kWh power pack. The kit is available now from Leo Motors on an order basis. Photos of the post-conversion Kia Motors vehicle can be viewed at: http://www.dailycar.co.kr/content/news.html?type=view&gu=2&autoId=4316

Leo Motors has several proprietary designs for new electric vehicles for various uses including taxis; fleet operations such as police, mail delivery, and resorts; as well as a unique electric motor cycle. Leo Motors is also developing a revolutionary multi-motor system as well as a new type of refuelable zinc air fuel cell.

This company is proving that electric vehicles are viable and ready for use by all motorists. $20,000 is simply not that much of a premium to pay for a very capable alternate energy vehicle. If a major auto manufacturer would simply step up and start manufacturing these vehicles, the price premium will drop drastically.

For more news and information on Leo Motors, Inc. please visit www.IRGnews.com/coi/LEOM where you can find the CEO’s video, a fact sheet on the company, investor presentations, and more. The company’s website is www.leomotors.com.

Source: Leomotors.com