Kia Australia is eyeing plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) as a strategic pathway to curbing emissions and steering clear of penalties under the impending New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). As the automotive industry gears up for stricter emissions regulations kicking in from 2025, Kia believes that alongside electric vehicles (EVs), PHEVs could be instrumental in slashing CO2 outputs across its vehicle lineup.
Damien Meredith, CEO of Kia Australia, underscores the significance of PHEVs in the emissions reduction strategy. He emphasizes the pivotal role that PHEVs could play in achieving emission targets if a steady supply can be secured. Meredith highlights the brand’s commitment to exploring diverse vehicle options while ensuring profitability and accessibility for all consumers.
Currently, Kia’s PHEV offerings in Australia are limited to models like the Sorento and Niro, with constraints on supply hampering their market penetration.
Dean Norbiato, Kia Australia’s general manager of marketing, acknowledges the challenges posed by limited supply and consumer awareness about PHEV technology. However, he anticipates a potential resurgence of interest in PHEVs with the implementation of NVES, signaling a shift in consumer preferences towards greener alternatives.
Despite the growing popularity of EVs and hybrids, PHEVs have remained a niche segment in the Australian market. However, with only 11,212 PHEVs sold out of 1.2 million new vehicles in the previous year, there’s considerable room for growth.
As Kia strategizes to traverse the evolving automotive industry, PHEVs emerge as a promising solution to drive emissions reductions and compliance with regulatory standards.
