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Following the debut of the Sorento Hybrid Concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Kia has confirmed that it will be pursuing diesel-hybrid technology in future production vehicles. A source has confirmed to AutoCar that the Kia Sorento Concept is likely to enter production by 2012.

“Diesel hybrids are certainly the way we’d like to go with our alternatively powered vehicles in the future,” said the source. “The powertrain seen in the Sorento has a strong chance of making production, be it in that model or others such as the Cee’d. All manufacturers have to work to get their emissions down and we think this is one our best chances of getting there.”

The Kia Sorento Hybrid concept is powered by a 1.6L diesel engine fitted with twin-turbochargers that produces more than 161-hp. The diesel engine is mated to an electric-motor and a double-clutch transmission.

Kia said it is also looking to introduce electric vehicles within the next two years. Insiders say that Kia has developed an all-electric version of the Sportage SUV in Korea.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

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