Kia has announced it will introduce its first 48V diesel mild-hybrid powertrain, dubbed ‘EcoDynamics+’ in the latter half of the year.
The system is designed to reduce CO2 emissions through the use of electric power from the additional 48-volt battery to accelerate. It is also said to allow the combustion engine to ‘rest’ for longer with the use of a new Mild-Hybrid Start-Generator unit.
Kia is touting the virtues of the EcoDynamic+ as offering a compelling cost-to-performance ratio in comparison to full hybrid powertrains, which also hits the criteria Kia set for itself of creating affordable innovative cars for everyone.
With the size, shape and design of the new EcoDynamic+ system able to fit into existing vehicle and powertrain architecture there is no need for Kia to hit the drawing board again, it is designed to fit seamlessly into the existing vehicle without the need for plug-in recharging.
First on the agenda to feature the EcoDynamic+ diesel mild-hybrid powertrain will be the Kia Sportage which will arrive later in 2018. From 2019 the new third-generation Kia Ceed will be the second model to offer the new powertrain.
The powertrain itself consists of a 0.46 lWh 48-volt lithium ion battery and the new Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG). Switching between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ mode is managed electronically. The MHSG is able to provide up to 10kW of electric power to assist the ‘motor’ mode which is connected via a belt to the diesel engine crankshaft. Kinetic energy from vehicle deceleration and braking is used to recharge the batteries in ‘generator’ mode.
More details of the new mild-hybrid system roll-out are expected from Kia in the coming months. Unfortunately, the tech isn’t coming to Australia, Kia’s local arm is preparing to bypass interim measures and head straight to EVs like the recently revealed Niro.
More: All News
More: Kia Niro EV
More: 2018 Kia Picanto Review
