New Car Review Areas


General Car Topics

2008 Kia Borrego Fuel Cell Review

November 2008
Filed under: KIA Car News | KIA Headlines

Latest KIA Headlines

Kia's Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) programme has taken a major technological step forward with the global unveiling of the all-new Kia Borrego FCEV at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.

Numerous innovations including a higher output 154 horsepower fuel cell and a new 450-volt Supercapacitor give the Borrego FCEV higher performance, a greatly extended driving range and cold-weather starting capability to operate in sub-zero temperatures.

Available with two and three tank systems with 70MPa pressure, the Borrego FCEV’s power plant is located under the centre floor and boasts an additional 47 horsepower of power to produce a peak output of 154 horsepower (a 44-percent increase compared to the previous generation) and propels the vehicle to a top speed of 161 kph while boasting a best-in-class system efficiency of 62 percent. With a 202-litre hydrogen storage tank located underneath the vehicle and ahead of the rear wheels, this latest Kia Motors research vehicle has a range of around 685 km.

“Entering this new phase of our program is really exciting,” said Dr. Hyun Soon Lee, president of research and development for the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group.

“Now we will be able to build fuel cell electric vehicles in higher volumes and lower cost for fleet testing and the latest Borrego FCEV drives us closer to making fuel cell vehicles available for consumers.”

Demonstrating its ability to conduct engineering of both gasoline/diesel production models and fuel cell research vehicles simultaneously, Kia Motors will be able to significantly improve the efficiency and quality control of future fuel cell vehicle manufacturing processes.

With the use of lightweight aluminum body shell components, the Borrego FCEV has a power-to-weight ratio that is similar to the new production model SUV. The FCEV also retains the roomy cabin, low noise levels and overall driving refinement of its new gasoline/diesel-powered sibling.

The Borrego follows on from Kia’s current environmental technology showcase model – the Sportage FCEV.

Latest Car News

All images courtesy of and copyright their respective manufacturers, unless otherwise indicated. They may not be reproduced or retransmitted in any way without the express written permission of their respective owners. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Model news and specifications are presented as provided by manufacturer, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DIGIADS. No warranty is made by DIGIADS with respect to the accuracy or timeliness of the information contained herein.