Kia is now serious about fully electric and hybrid vehicles. Recently, at a global investor meeting held in Seoul, the company shared its 5-year strategy, which focused specifically on the electrification of vehicles. The company plans to include fully electric and hybrid models in all segments.
Kia’s thinking is also very clear about emerging markets like the Indian market. The company has announced that by 2030, 57% of its vehicles sold in India should be ICE, 25% hybrid, and 18% EV. That is, the company is gradually increasing its focus on electric and hybrid vehicles.
Second-generation Seltos will be hybrid
A big update is also coming about Kia’s popular car Seltos. The company is currently working on the second-generation Seltos, prototypes of which have been seen several times during testing in recent months. Now it has come to light that Kia will launch its new Seltos with a hybrid petrol engine. This move of the company will not only promote green mobility but will also provide better mileage and eco-friendly options to Indian customers.
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Work on hybrid Kia Seltos
Kia Motors is rapidly working on the new generation of its popular SUV Seltos. According to reports, the second-generation Seltos will be introduced globally by the end of this year, and its entry into India is expected in 2025. Although Kia has not yet given any specific information about the new Seltos, it is expected to offer a strong hybrid powertrain with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol unit.
Apart from this, the existing 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine will also be retained in the new Seltos. However, the return of the diesel engine is considered doubtful due to strict pollution regulations. Also, Kia is developing a three-row SUV based on the Seltos for India, which is also likely to benefit from the upcoming petrol hybrid powertrain.
The new style will be seen in the design
The new Seltos will see major changes in both design and technology. It is believed that the company will introduce a strong hybrid powertrain with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine in it. The pictures seen during the testing show that the new Seltos will have many major visual changes, such as – new style LED headlights and light signature, newly designed ORVMs (side mirrors), and stylish dual-tone alloy wheels. Most importantly – a new grille, inspired by Kia’s large SUV Telluride.
More emphasis on expanding the electric segment
Currently, most of Kia’s vehicles in India are ICE (internal combustion engine) and EVs account for only 1%. However, the company is now increasing its focus on electric vehicles. Kia will launch the Carens EV by the end of this year and the Siro EV based on the Seltos in 2026. Both these vehicles will target a large number of customers. Apart from this, Kia has also recently launched a new version of its EV6 vehicle in the premium segment in India.
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