This also allows for other Offering several advantages, this modular layout includes more efficient powertrain packaging, use of many "off the-shelf" components such as the existing six-speed automatic transmission found on the 2.4-liter GDI Optima, and reduced engineering investment. Compared to the power-split hybrid systems found on vehicles from Toyota or Ford, the Kia Optima Hybrid uses a Transmission Mounted Electric-Drive (TMED) layout with the electric motor separated from the transmission gear-set. Unique Hybrid Architecture Unlike most current systems on the market, the Kia Optima Hybrid powertrain is configured with a unique architecture.
Lithium polymer also has less of the self-discharge characteristic found in most rechargeable batteries. With that improved efficiency, more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine is available to move the car as necessary, which allows the vehicle to provide electric driving assist more often and for a longer period. Both fuel consumption and emissions are cut, allowing more electric starts and drive-aways. The Kia Optima Hybrid's battery will hold its charge up to 25 percent longer than hybrids with nickel metal hydride batteries, so the battery is more likely to have usable energy available even if it has not been in use.
The power and energy density of this new battery type allowed Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact battery pack, with the 30 kilowatt battery pack weighing just 95.9 pounds - 28 pounds less than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid's nickel metal hydride pack - which aids fuel economy and also helps to maximize Optima's cargo space. Durable Lithium Polymer Battery The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid's outstanding efficiency is due in large part to the use of a lithium polymer battery, which was developed in South Korea with partner LG Chem.
Lithium polymer also has less of the self-discharge characteristic found in most rechargeable batteries. With that improved efficiency, more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine is available to move the car as necessary, which allows the vehicle to provide electric driving assist more often and for a longer period. Both fuel consumption and emissions are cut, allowing more electric starts and drive-aways. The Kia Optima Hybrid's battery will hold its charge up to 25 percent longer than hybrids with nickel metal hydride batteries, so the battery is more likely to have usable energy available even if it has not been in use.
The power and energy density of this new battery type allowed Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact battery pack, with the 30 kilowatt battery pack weighing just 95.9 pounds - 28 pounds less than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid's nickel metal hydride pack - which aids fuel economy and also helps to maximize Optima's cargo space. Durable Lithium Polymer Battery The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid's outstanding efficiency is due in large part to the use of a lithium polymer battery, which was developed in South Korea with partner LG Chem.