Kia Motors’ Chinese joint venture, Dongfeng Yueda Kia Motors Co., Ltd (DYK), revealed two new models at Auto China 2018: the new K5 Plug-in Hybrid and the Kia YI PAO urban SUV, designed and built exclusively for sale in China.
Known as the Optima Plug-in Hybrid in Europe and in the U.S., the K5 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a high-capacity 50 kW electric motor and efficient 2.0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, 156 HP and 189 Nm.
The lithium-polymer battery pack provides a 29-mile (47-kilometer) zero-emission electric range.
“The K5 Plug-in Hybrid boasts an exclusive new powertrain, with greater zero-emissions range than any other Kia hybrid to date. The company will lead the new energy vehicle market in China by continuous investment,” said Nam Young So, CEO and executive vice president at DYK, in a statement.
Re-engineered for China, the Kia K5 Plug-in Hybrid is set to be produced in China from the second quarter of 2018.