New Optima Hybrid gets some unique features

The all-new 2011 Kia Optima midsize sedan line-up jumps into the market with three models, including Kia’s first ever hybrid.

Besides competing with more established players (thanks to a parallel hybrid system), the new Optima Hybrid gets some unique features – a lithium polymer battery and the ability to drive in electric mode up to highway speeds.

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The benefits of the lithium polymer battery are realized mostly in weight and size, with the 30 kW battery pack weighing just 43.5 kg (about 96 lbs.), or about 12.7 kg or 28 lbs. less than the nickel metal hydride battery pack in the Toyota Camry. That allowed Kia engineers to not take up as much of the car’s cargo space (though it still loses a split folding rear seat).

The Optima’s electric motor is also separated from the transmission, which allows Kia to use existing components (such as the six-speed automatic) rather than developing new, unique purpose ones. That should translate into better cost efficiencies, but will also allow the flexibility of adding more powerful motors for improved electric usage down the road.

Electric assist for the steering insures turning assist is available during electric mode driving (most systems are hydraulically powered off the engine so when the engine is shut down, there wouldn’t be any assist available). The air conditioning is also electrically driven so it works when the engine isn’t running and it also takes the load off the engine, resulting in an economy improvement.

The 2.4 litre engine has been modified to run on an Atkinson cycle, improving compression by 20% and reducing fuel usage by 10%. The resultant loss in torque is more than made up for by the electric motor.

Physical changes on the Optima hybrid include a lowered ride height, new grille and headlamps, unique 16-inch wheels, bumper and side sill changes, taillamp design and a rear spoiler. Underbody aero tuning, lower drag wheels and low rolling resistance tires, and an active air flap system all contribute to a reduced coefficient of drag (just 0.26), which contributes to improved economy.

The Hybrid is derived from the Optima LX trim level with automatic transmission. An extensive list of standard features includes power driver’s seat, dual zone climate control, keyless entry and push button start, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and the now expected added noise to alert pedestrians to its approach when it’s travelling in electric mode.

A Premium Technology Package adds 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 levelling, a navigation system with back-up camera and SIRIUS Traffic, and a premium sound system.