Kia has introduced a unique hybrid vehicle in Italy, the Niro Tri-Fuel, designed for drivers who want to save on fuel costs and reduce emissions without compromising on long-distance travel. With a range of up to 1,609 km (1,000 miles) before refuelling, it’s an ideal option for those who do not want a fully electric car.
Kia Niro Tri-Fuel: Engine
The Niro Tri-Fuel stands out from other hybrids. Besides using a petrol engine and an electric motor, it also includes a 10.5-gallon LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) tank located under the cargo area. This setup, combined with an 11.1-gallon petrol tank, provides a total range far beyond what’s typically possible with standard hybrids or electric cars.
The car’s engine is a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol unit that produces 90 hp, and it’s paired with a 43 hp electric motor. Together, the engine and motor generate 126 hp and 264.3 Nm of torque. The system also includes a small 1.32-kilowatt-hour battery for additional power. A button near the start/stop button lets the driver easily switch the engine to run on LPG and monitor fuel levels. Running on LPG can reduce CO2 emissions by about 6%, supporting greener driving.
Kia Niro Tri-Fuel: Warranty and Prices
Kia partnered with BRC, a part of Westport Fuel Systems Italia, for the LPG installation. Despite the conversion, the Niro Tri-Fuel still comes with Kia’s full 7-year or 93,205-mile warranty. Kia estimates that owners could save up to €5,000 in fuel costs over the vehicle’s life, which balances out the model’s extra €2,000 cost. Prices start at €34,450 for the base model, and go up to €39,200 for the higher-end version.
