Kia Australia Takes the Eco Challenge

The Australian division of Kia Motors has announced a two-car entry in the Eco Challenge category of the 2009 Global Green Challenge, to be run from Darwin to Adelaide between October 24-31. The two vehicles are Kia Forte (Cerato) LPI Hybrid models, which were also showcased at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show last month, when the Eco Dynamics sub-brand was also launched.

The Kia Forte LPI hybrid runs on a mixture of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which can be bought for less than half the cost of petrol or diesel.

“The Forte LPI Hybrid is the newest addition to Kia's widely acclaimed Forte family called Cerato in Australia which includes the petrol-powered 4-door sedan and just launched sporty Koup,” a company statement says.

The Forte is powered by a 1.6l Gamma LPI HEV engine, which develops a maximum of 114 horsepower with a fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km (40.5 mpg), for the version equipped with a CVT transmission.

Additionally, with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, the Forte LPI Hybrid qualifies for billing as a Super Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

Another highlight announced by Kia Motors Australia is the next generation Kia Sorento which will feature the new, high-tech R-series 2.2-liter diesel engine that delivers 194 bhp and 310 lb-ft of torque, and is mated to either a manual six-speed transmission or to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The manufacturer revealed that more news will follow on both these developments in coming weeks.