Kia BUZZ, korean’s automaker official blog published an interesting post about the hybrids cars, myths and the Optima Hybrid. Hit the jump to see the complete information.
#1: Hybrids are expensive.
There are about 25 different hybrid models ranging in price from $22,000 to $103,000. The Optima Hybrid can be had for under $30,000 USD (prices vary by market), including class-leading warranties. Its 35 mpg city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy rating helps to save money. In addition, in many countries’ governments offer tax incentives for those who purchase eco-friendly cars.
#2: Hybrid batteries fail and need to be replaced.
Hybrid batteries are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, which is typically 10 years or 150,000 miles. It is rare for the battery in a hybrid to have to be replaced. Additionally, the advanced lithium polymer battery is lighter, more compact and more powerful than all other batteries adopted in hybrid vehicles.
#3: Hybrids are slow.
Most hybrids travel at the same speeds as conventional vehicles. The Kia Optima Hybrid can travel at 206.2 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with its combined system performance. In other words, definitely not slow.
#4: The only reason for buying a hybrid is to save money on gas.
Yes, the gas savings are great. However, many hybrid owners aren’t just driving around their vehicles for the fuel economy. They strongly believe in reducing the world’s addiction to oil, protecting the environment and supporting advanced technology.
#5: Hybrids are ugly and aren’t luxurious.
The Optima Hybrid has the same powerful, sleek look as the conventional hybrid. Most people can hardly tell the difference between the two!.
As for luxury, the Optima Hybrid’s Premium Technology Package includes a panoramic sunroof, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, power front passenger’s seat, driver’s seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, HID headlamps with automatic leveling, a navigation system with back-up camera and SIRIUS traffic and a premium sound system.
How’s that for luxurious?.
#6: Charging a hybrid is difficult.
Many people equate “hybrid cars” to “plug-in power”. No plug is needed. The Kia Optima Hybrid recharges as you drive. When braking, the electric motor converts kinetic energy into electricity for storage in the battery pack. The Optima Hybrid’s 8.5 kW Hybrid Starter motor/generator (HSG) also serves as a generator to recharge the battery pack.
#7: Driving a hybrid is complicated.
A hybrid car drives similarly to a conventional vehicle. With the Kia Optima Hybrid, all you have to do is press the push-start button and go. It also offers features like the Active Eco System, which adjusts the engine, transmission and air-conditioner for maximum fuel efficiency all at the touch of a button.
#8: Hybrids and EVs are just a trend.
Hybrids are here to stay. All major automakers have a hybrid or electric vehicle in their lineup or are currently working on developing one. According to J.D. Power & Associates, economic, environmental and security concerns will continue to drive the growth of hybrids and electric vehicles. Global sales of hybrids and EVs are expected to reach over 3.4 million units in 2015 and 5.2 million in 2020.
To learn more about the Kia Optima Hybrid, visit http://www.kia.com/#/hybrid.
Also you can learn more information from our Kia BUZZ editor Colin Jang’s Optima hybrid test drive review. http://kia-buzz.com/?p=7891.
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Special thanks to Kia BUZZ Editorial Team.
