April 23, 2024

• 

[THE INVESTOR] Kia Motors on May 15 launched the plug-in hybrid model of its Niro compact SUV, the first PHEV SUV in Korea. 

The PHEV version arrives a year after the Niro hybrid SUV made a grand debut in Korea last year, immediately breaking the monthly sales record in green car segment. 

The Niro PHEV, equipped with 8.9 kilowatt-hours high-capacity lithium-polymer battery pack, can travel 40 kilometers in electric mode when fully charged and up to 800 kilometers in hybrid range. 

Kia plans to launch the full-electric Niro next year, reflecting the carmaker’s focus to expand its green car lineup. 

The Niro PHEV is priced at 33.05 million won (US$29,377) and 35.35 million won depending on the trim level. But the final price can go down after receiving 5 million won government subsidy. 

Kia also rolled out the latest 2018 Niro hybrid model on the day.

“Last year’s introduction of Niro, the first hybrid SUV in Korea, has driven sales in the compact SUV market,” a Kia official said in a statement. “We expect the sales to gain momentum with the launch of new 2018 Niro and the Niro PHEV.”

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)