Kia hybrid cars coming later this year

The Kia Ray Concept

Yesterday, Kia debuted the Ray plug-in hybrid concept at the Chicago Auto Show. Based on the Forte-platform, the Ray plug-in hybrid mates a direct-injected 4-cylinder engine with a lithium-polymer battery pack and a 78-kwh electric motor. Kia speculates the plug-in concept can achieve about 50 miles of pure EV range and an overall range of 746 miles.

Yes the Kia Ray plug-in hybrid is an exciting concept, but it's still a concept. Assuredly, some form of this concept will eventually become a reality, eventually.

What is reality, however, are Kia's plans to begin selling conventional hybrid cars in the US later this year according to Alex Fedorak, Kia's director of communications. No further details yet available, except that these hybrids will be available to all consumers, not just fleets.

Kia teases plug-in hybrid concept

To debut at Chicago Auto Show

Kia is set to show off the Kia Ray plug-in hybrid concept at the Chicago Auto Show according to Cars.com.

While Kia isn't releasing many details, one can probably assume that this Kia plug-in hybrid uses a plug-in version of Hyundai's new Blue hybrid drive.