It's no secret that automakers are ramping up their eco-friendly vehicle options and raising efficiency levels higher all in the name of saving several kinds of green. Kia is no exception. However, enthusiasts might be interested to know that the innovative automaker isn't jumping on the hybrid train nor turning to plug-in electrics. Rather, Kia has kicked up its efforts in the realm of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV).
Over a decade ago, Kia engineers tested out their FCEV legs with a specially-made, experiential Sportage. Fast forward to today and the savvy minds at Kia have put together a Borrego FCEV model that is able to go over 400 miles on a single tank of hydrogen. Essentially that gives it a miles-per-gallon-equivalent of 54.
Not only has the fuel-cell powered SUV been able to push past the EV-habit of posting low mileage, but the automaker has developed ways for the technology to be safer as well.
The biggest problem at this point? That would be bringing down the cost of producing these clean electric machines. To that end, Kia has joined a group of seven automakers, all of which are committing to the mass production of FCEVs by the year 2015. High-volume production should balance out the spending issue and make the integration of fuel cell electrics much more feasible.
Eager to see where Kia goes with its fuel cell electric vehicle technology next? Pence Kia invites you to keep an eye on our Kia blog and find out. Our new Kia vehicle team at 11901 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA strives to stay on top of the latest brand developments and send them your way.