Kia Seltos Hybrid Launching Next Year: Details
The South Korean automotive giant Kia is reportedly working on the development of the Kia Seltos with a hybrid powertrain. This new hybrid Seltos is set to make its debut in the second half of next year. As per the reports, this new Seltos Hybrid model could also come with an all-wheel drive system. Apart from this Seltos, the company is also planning to introduce 8 more hybrid cars in India and across the globe in the coming period.
Kia Seltos Hybrid: What We Know So Far
The main highlight of the upcoming Kia Seltos will be its hybrid powertrain. The next-generation Seltos, which is currently under development, has been given the project name SP3. It will most likely be launched in August next year at the Kia Autoland Gwangju Plant.
Reportedly, the Seltos Hybrid will combine a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. Combined, this powertrain will be able to generate around 141 bhp and 265 Nm of torque. This hybrid system is currently found in the Hyundai Kona Hybrid.
As per the sources, it could offer a combined fuel efficiency ranging between 18.1 to 19.8 km/l in the new Seltos Hybrid. Also, as stated above, Kia is also developing a dedicated electronic all-wheel drive (E-AWD) system for the Seltos Hybrid.
Kia’s Hybrid Strategy
At the ‘CEO Insider Day’ in April, Kia announced that it will be expanding its hybrid vehicle lineup across the globe. This will be done to counter the slowdown in EV demand. By 2028, Kia aims to secure nine hybrid models. By that time, it will increase its hybrid sales share from 12% (372,000 units) this year to 19% (800,000 units).
Replacing Diesel Engines with Hybrids in India
Kia last year revealed that it is actively evaluating the introduction of hybrid cars in India as well. It is planning a potential replacement for diesel engines. According to Tae-Jin Park, Kia India’s MD & CEO, the brand is studying the feasibility of bringing hybrid technology to the Indian market.
The brand is doing so in order to stay ahead of future regulations that might phase out diesel engines. Kia is working on electrifying its existing 1.2-liter and 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engines for the Indian market.
This strategy includes the localization of motor components and battery technology to keep costs in check. Apart from the Seltos hybrid, the company is also looking to offer Carens the hybrid treatment.
It will then be followed by a new sub-four-meter SUV codenamed AY. The new AY model is scheduled for an early 2025 launch. This compact SUV will potentially benefit from a lower 28% tax bracket for sub-four-meter cars.
Why is Kia Planning to Offer Hybrids in India?
For those who may be wondering why Kia is planning to offer hybrids in India instead of EVs, the answer is the shift in global trends. Globally and in India as well, electric vehicles are losing interest. This is happening due to a lack of proper charging infrastructure and high upfront costs. Automakers are also hesitant as there is uncertainty in terms of policies from the government.