Switching to a Kia Hybrid or Electric vehicle is easier than you might think. Hendy Kia offers a broad array of models with Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or Electric powertrains. Explore the benefits of the Kia hybrid and electric range and find out which option is best for you.
A Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) combines a petrol engine with a small battery. The battery is ‘self-charging,’ replenished during deceleration. While stationary or at low speeds, HEVs operate in full electric mode. Otherwise, the battery assists the combustion engine, optimising fuel efficiency and achieving a range comparable to conventional cars.
A hybrid car, often referred to as a self-charging hybrid car, combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery to power the vehicle. Unlike plug-in hybrids, a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) cannot be plugged in for charging. Instead, the battery charges during deceleration, braking, or coasting phases.
The operation of a hybrid car is straightforward. Alongside a petrol or diesel engine, Kia hybrid cars (HEV) feature an electric motor powered by a small yet effective battery. This electric motor assists the engine, leading to improved fuel efficiency.
Driving a Kia hybrid feels much like operating a traditional combustion engine car, but with a few added bonuses. First, it’s significantly quieter. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the convenience of clutch-less driving, whether with an automatic or dual-clutch auto transmission. And if you’re in the mood for a more dynamic drive, Kia hybrid cars even offer a Sports drive mode.
The term “hybrid” in the context of vehicles refers to the combination of two different power sources: electricity and petrol. In the case of hybrid cars, energy is regenerated through the braking system to charge the battery. The engine and battery work in tandem, supporting each other as needed—they can operate together or independently.
A Hybrid 4x4 combines electric power with a petrol engine, creating a four-wheel drive system. Unlike a typical petrol 4x4 that tends to consume more fuel, a Kia Hybrid 4x4 offers better fuel efficiency.
A Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) lets you drive in electric mode for short trips, while offering extended range using both petrol and electricity. These PHEVs feature a sizable battery that can be charged externally, whether at home or public EV charging stations. Starting with a full battery, Kia PHEVs achieve an electric range of up to 40 miles (model-dependent). On longer journeys, they seamlessly combine engine and battery power, providing a range comparable to conventional cars.
PHEV stands for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle. These innovative cars combine the best of both worlds: electricity and traditional fuels (petrol or diesel). PHEVs feature a substantial battery that can be recharged from an external power source, allowing them to operate purely on electric power for extended periods.
A Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) bridges the gap between battery electric cars and conventional petrol/diesel vehicles. As the name suggests, you can plug in a PHEV to recharge its battery from the mains. These cars combine both a combustion engine and an electric motor. Notably, the battery pack in a PHEV is larger than that of a standard hybrid, allowing for longer electric-only driving ranges—typically 20 to 30 miles, with some models exceeding 50 miles.
A Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) operates similarly to a standard hybrid. It combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and a larger battery. The key difference lies in the rechargeable battery, which can be replenished from an external outlet. On battery power alone, a PHEV can cover around 30-40 miles (model-dependent), making it ideal for daily commutes. When needed, the petrol engine seamlessly takes over. Keep in mind that due to the heavier batteries, a PHEV’s fuel economy may not match that of non-plug-in alternatives.
Yes, Plug-In Hybrid cars can indeed charge while driving, thanks to regenerative braking. Similar to hybrid cars, PHEV batteries can recharge during deceleration or downhill travel. However, due to their larger battery capacity, PHEVs also require external charging. Whether at home or a public charging point, PHEVs offer electric-only driving capabilities, providing a seamless blend of low-cost, emission-free miles and the convenience of a petrol engine for longer journeys.
When comparing hybrid to plug-in hybrid cars, the key disparity lies in their battery capacities and charging capabilities. Unlike conventional hybrids, plug-in hybrids feature larger batteries that can be recharged externally, allowing for extended electric-only driving ranges.
In comparing MHEV to PHEV, the distinction lies in their operational modes and powertrain configurations. A Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) enhances internal combustion engine efficiency with a 48V battery and electric motor. Unlike plug-in hybrids (PHEV), MHEVs cannot solely rely on electric power, yet they feature engine shutdown functionalities during braking, coasting, and stopping, contributing to fuel savings and reduced emissions.
An Electric Vehicle (EV) operates exclusively on electricity, delivering quiet operation, zero emissions, and impressive performance. Kia’s EV technology has advanced significantly, with our e-GMP platform enabling an electric range of up to 328 miles*. Rapid charging is facilitated by an extensive network of public EV stations.
Electric cars, also known as electric battery-powered cars, operate solely on electric power generated by an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Unlike traditional combustion engine vehicles, electric cars do not burn fuel, resulting in zero harmful emissions. As emission-free alternatives, electric cars offer a sustainable and efficient mode of transportation compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts.
An electric car relies on an electric motor for propulsion, rather than a conventional fuel engine. Its energy source is a battery—typically a lithium-ion battery—that directly powers the wheels, delivering instant acceleration and smooth performance.
At Hendy Kia, we offer a diverse range of Electric and Hybrid vehicles tailored to various needs and lifestyles. Explore our best electric cars, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, mild-hybrids, and fully electric models.
While there is currently no specific government electric car grant in the UK, other forms of government incentives exist for electric cars. For example, Kia electric cars often benefit from lower road tax and more favourable benefit-in-kind taxation for company car drivers.
