What Is A Hybrid Car? | Kia Eco Cars | Kia Motors UK

How does a self-charging hybrid car work?
In terms of how you use it, a self-charging hybrid car works just like a conventional car – there is no need to plug in – simply fill up with petrol at the pumps, and off you go! So what does hybrid mean? It’s pretty simple, along with a petrol or diesel engine, hybrid cars also have an electric motor that is powered by a small battery. The aim of the electric motor is to assist the engine and occasionally drive very short distances on battery power – as opposed to driving long distances on battery power alone as a plug-in hybrid or a battery-electric vehicle would.
The battery is charged by recovering energy that would otherwise be wasted – when slowing down for example. The battery then feeds this energy to the electric motor to help with acceleration or to drive the car at low speeds. This means lower emissions, better fuel economy and more money to spend on the things you enjoy. Great!

What are the benefits of a self-charging hybrid car?
There are several benefits to owning a self-charging hybrid car.

Lower emissions
Reduced running cost

Doesn’t require you to make any changes
Relaxing drive

What is it like to drive a self-charging hybrid car?
Very similar to driving a conventional car, but with a few bonuses. The best part is that the car’s clever systems decide how to use the battery and electric motor in the most efficient way possible. You just need to drive as you normally would, while enjoying improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
If you want to have more of a say, you can change driving modes to encourage the car to focus on economy, or if you want a more dynamic drive, you can switch Sport mode. You will also notice that the car is quieter, particularly around town, thanks to the assistance from the electric motor.
Kia’s self-charging hybrid
If you like the idea of a hybrid car, why not check out the Kia Niro Self-charging hybrid?
Stylish. Modern. Feature-rich. The Kia Niro Self-charging Hybrid
Still Wondering?

What is a battery electric car?
A battery electric vehicle is better for the environment than a petrol or diesel car, cheaper to run, and simple to own. Like the sound of that? Our simple guide can tell you more.

What is a Plug-in Hybrid car?
Plug-in hybrid cars can offer you many of the benefits of an electric car, they have a shorter electric range but can rely on a petrol motor for longer trips.

What is a mild hybrid car?
Mild Hybrids allow your engine to switch off more frequently, which improves fuel economy and reduces emissions.

How does charging work?
Don’t worry, charging may seem like a whole new world, but in reality it’s very simple

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