- Next generation Borrego Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) from Kia Motors

- Advanced technologies boost performance, range and start-up temperatures

- Fuel cell series production comes closer to market

- U.S. specification Soul makes debut

Kia Motors Corporation’s Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) programme takes a major technological step forward with the global unveiling of the all-new Kia Borrego (known as ‘Mohave’ in some markets) FCEV at the Los Angeles Motor Show.

Numerous innovations including a higher output 154 horsepower fuel cell and a new 450-volt Supercapacitor give the Borrego FCEV higher performance, a greatly extended driving range and cold weather starting capability to operate in sub-zero temperatures.

Available with two and three tank systems with 70MPa pressure, the Borrego FCEV’s power plant is located under the centre floor and boasts an additional 47 horsepower of power to produce a peak output of 154 horsepower (a 44 per cent increase compared to the previous generation) and propel the vehicle to a top speed of 161 km/h while boasting a best in class system efficiency of 62 per cent.  With a 202-litre hydrogen storage tank located underneath the vehicle and ahead of the rear wheels, this latest Kia research vehicle has a range of around 685 kms.

“Entering this new phase of our programme is really exciting,” said Dr. Hyun Soon Lee, president of research and development for the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group.

“Now we will be able to build fuel cell electric vehicles in higher volumes and lower cost for fleet testing and the latest Borrego FCEV drives us closer to making fuel cell vehicles available for consumers.”

Demonstrating its ability to conduct engineering of both petrol/diesel production models and fuel cell research vehicles simultaneously, Kia Motors will be able to significantly improve the efficiency and quality control of future fuel cell vehicle manufacturing processes.

With the use of lightweight aluminium body shell components, the Borrego FCEV has a power-to-weight ratio that is similar to the new production model SUV. The FCEV also retains the roomy cabin, low noise levels and overall driving refinement of its new petrol/diesel-powered 'sibling'.

Soul production car revealed

Soul has now gone full circle – originally designed in California, the production version is unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show as Kia continues to develop into a design led brand. It will go on sale in the US in March 2009.

The US specification Soul will be available in four trim levels – Soul, Soul+, Soul!, and Soul sport. The range enjoys a host of street-cool features including body coloured bumpers, privacy glass, sport-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler and 18 inch alloy wheels.

The Soul’s interior design is decidedly influenced by the car’s highly specified audio system – Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity, MP3 capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, USB and iPod connectivity and a 315-watt sound system with external amplifier, boot mounted sub-woofer and dash mounted centre speaker will all be available.

Soul will be powered by a pair of petrol engines in the USA.  A punchy 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, matched to a five speed manual transmission, produces 120 bhp and a 2.0-litre with a five speed manual or four speed auto transmission, offers 140 bhp.

High levels of safety will feature on Soul as standard with front seat active headrestraints, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). An antilock brake system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), and rear disc brakes are available in the range.

Note: Standard equipment and specifications outlined above are based on U.S. model and may vary depending on country.

Australian Availability For The New Kia Soul

The local introduction of the new Kia Soul is expected in April or May 2008.

Borrego FCEV vs. Sportage FCEV Technical Specifications