2010 Chicago Auto Show, Chicago, IL – Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the Ray Plug-in Hybrid concept. Stephen J. Kosowski, Manager, Long Range Strategy & Planning, Kia Motors America
Designers and Engineers worked on the Kia Ray to give it reduced drag, touch-screen controls, drive-by-wire steering, “cool-glazing” solar glass and a lithium-polymer battery “ all possible indicators of future technology from Kia. As a plug-in hybrid, Ray is designed to reach driving distances of more than 50 miles using it’s electric motor on a single charge, and has a fuel economy rating of more than 202 miles per gallon, and has a total range of 746 miles.
Hybrid Architecture
The Ray Concept is designed to be powered by an all-aluminum 153-horsepower Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) 1.4-liter engine mated to a permanently-engaged fixed ratio Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), used in combination with a 78kw electric motor. Depending on driving conditions, power is sent to the wheels from the gasoline engine, the electric motor, or both together. The Ray concept is front-wheel drive with a four-wheel independent suspension.
| Exterior Dimensions | |
| Length: | 173.2 inches / 4,400 mm |
| Width: | 72.8 inches / 1,850 mm |
| Height: | 53.5 inches / 1,360 mm |
| Wheel base: | 106.3 inches / 2,700 mm |
| Tires | 195/50 R20 low-rolling resistance |
| Engine | 1.4-liter Gamma 153-hp GDI engine / 78kw electric motor |
| Transmission | CVT/ fixed ratio |
| Batteries | Lithium-ion polymer |
| Top Speed | 109 mph |
| Fuel Economy (Pure HEV Mode) | 77.6 mpg |
| Fuel Economy (Plug-in HEV Mode) | 202.3 mpg |
| Vehicle Range | 746 miles |
| Cd | 0.25 |
| Steering | By-wire |
