ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS ON THE HYBRID CAR

The Hybrid car is not new with the first being developed by one Ferdinand Porsche; the Lohner Porsche Elektromobil which made its debut at the 1900 Paris Expo. The German, who would later design the original Volkswagen Beetle, added a combustion engine that could recharge the batteries, and thus the first hybrid car was born.

However, it was not until 1997 that we were to see the first production hybrid car, from Toyota the Prius and two years later Honda launched their Insight model. Today the question that I am asked more than any other from people changing their car, hybrid or full EV. Not an easy one to answer, my preference would be to move to a hybrid or the in between a plug-in hybrid. However with the clock ticking down, eventually you will not be able to buy a conventional petrol or diesel powered car and finally even hybrids will be off the market leaving the choice to just a fully electric car (EV).

The concern by many who approach me is with two areas, charging and the availability of charge points. In many countries progress is slow when it comes to charging facilities, however the good news is that range is continually being improved and best to fit a home charger. This takes me to the latest hybrid that I have tested, the Kia Sorento (above). For me, the power of this generous sized SUV from a modest 1.6 litre engine which develops 212bhp and can reach 100kph (62mph) from rest in under ten seconds with a maximum speed of 181kph (113mph) was certainly satisfying. The battery a 1.49 kWh Li-ion polymer is positioned under the front seat, thus in no way cutting down on load carrying capacity in the boot. The Sorento will appeal to those who find a four or five seater not enough, so with this Kia comes seven seats in three rows with a combination of adjustments and when folded you are left with a more than generous load carrying space. In keeping with many other models from this South Korean car manufacturer, the level of on-board equipment is impressive with the usual abundance of technology for not only safety but for entertainment on the move. Recently updated, the Sorento design-wise takes quite a lot from the EV9 the flagship for the brand which delivers a much stronger on road presence. I must point out that the version I had on test was the entry level model to the range, yet it offered so much in terms of equipment and on the road a very positive and comfortable ride. Kia is certainly one company that does not rest on its laurels and we will see the introduction of several more EVs.

Recently I had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the updated EV6; they will of course still offer hybrids. The exterior has been refreshed including Start Map lighting and the interior features which showcases new horizontal design elements. Cutting edge 800 – volt technology sees a reduction in charge times, as little as fifteen minutes and the driving range has been extended to 580km (361 miles). This will be welcomed by many who fear the dreaded range anxiety. There are also enhancements to the infotainment system and over the air software upgrades. For those who struggle somewhat with parking there is Remote Parking Assist. Currently considering everything the latest version of the EV6 must be one of the best EVs currently in the marketplace. I aim to complete a more comprehensive Test Drive in a few weeks from now.

Mercedes recently revealed details of their forthcoming new CLA , a four door coupe that will be available as a petrol hybrid or all electric. The new CLA will be the first from the German carmaker to offer both options in the one model.

Ian Lynas