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Introduction
Vehicle Description
As with other HEV, the Kia Optima HEV uses the combination of a conventional gasoline
powered internal combustion engine and a high voltage electric motor to propel the
vehicle. This combination provides for improved gas mileage over a conventional Kia as
well as an increase in power over the standard 4-cylinder engine. The high voltage
electrical system is completely self-contained and does not need to be recharged by an
external power source such as a charging station. The high voltage battery is recharged
automatically while driving the vehicle. This is accomplished through the use of a
generator that produces electricity while driving and braking.