Kia Niro Introduces Groundbreaking Tri-Fuel Powertrain in Italy
Kia has made headlines by unveiling the Niro Hybrid small SUV equipped with a world-first factory-approved tri-fuel powertrain in Italy. This innovative system combines a conventional fuel tank, a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tank, and an electric motor, resulting in an impressive estimated driving range of 1,600 kilometers.
A Game-Changer in Driving Range
Imagine driving from Venice in northern Italy to Catania in the south—all on a single tank of fuel! The Kia Niro’s tri-fuel hybrid system, developed in collaboration with Westport Fuel Systems, offers an extraordinary WLTP-rated range that rivals many conventional vehicles. In Australia, this range could cover the distance from Melbourne to Sydney with nearly half a tank still available, showcasing the practicality and efficiency of this new model.
How the Tri-Fuel System Works
The Kia Niro Hybrid LPG adds a 40-liter LPG tank to the existing powertrain, which includes:
- A 1.6-liter non-turbo four-cylinder engine
- A 1.32kWh lithium-ion battery
- A 40kW electric motor
The total system output reaches 93kW—slightly lower than the non-LPG model by 2kW. Despite this reduction, Kia emphasizes that the tri-fuel system has minimal impact on driving performance compared to the standard Niro Hybrid. Moreover, the LPG variant emits six percent less carbon, at 94 grams per kilometer, furthering its appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Cost and Market Positioning
In Italy, the tri-fuel Niro Hybrid is available at an additional cost of €2000 (approximately AUD 3250) over the standard hybrid model. While LPG vehicles are still prevalent in parts of Europe, their popularity has waned in regions like Australia, where the last dedicated LPG models—such as the 2016 Ford Falcon and the 2015 Holden Commodore—are now a thing of the past.
The Decline of LPG in Australia
Once a popular alternative fuel in Australia, LPG usage has plummeted over the years. In 2000, Australians consumed 1.4 million tonnes of LPG, but that figure dwindled to just 365,000 tonnes by 2018. Currently, it’s estimated that only about two percent of the national vehicle fleet runs on LPG.
While LPG is generally more affordable than petrol or diesel and is primarily sourced from domestic natural gas deposits, the shift towards electrification—embracing both hybrid and fully electric vehicles—has contributed to the fuel’s decline. These cleaner alternatives align better with government initiatives aimed at achieving zero emissions.
Conclusion
The Kia Niro’s tri-fuel hybrid system represents a significant advancement in hybrid technology, combining efficiency with a remarkable driving range. While its debut in Italy might not translate to an immediate shift in the Australian market, it showcases Kia's commitment to innovation and sustainability in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. As countries continue to explore various fuel options, the tri-fuel Niro could pave the way for future models that prioritize both performance and environmental responsibility.