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Kia Optima T-Hybrid concept revealed ahead of Paris debut

Kia Optima T-Hybrid concept revealed ahead of Paris debut It looks like Kia is ready to push the start button on a new range of mild hybrids with the reveal of the Kia Optima T-Hybrid concept ahead of its debut later this week at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The new mild hybrid powertrain isn’t going to make an enormous difference to power or economy, but in a world where taxation gets based on official CO2 figures it will make the Optima more appealing to company car buyers. The Optima hybrid gets the normal 1.7 litre diesel engine and adds a small electric motor powered by a 48V lead-carbon battery which will be enough for short running at low speeds on electric power alone or allow some electric ‘cruising’ on motorways.

Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger recalled to fix electric problem

Chrysler is recalling almost 120,000 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 sedans from the 2011 and 2012 model years to fix an electrical-system problem. The problem is with a fuse in the power-distribution center, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If the power center overheats it could lead to a loss of antilock brakes and electronic stability control, which could lead to a crash.

2011 model year is a quickie at Chrysler

As soon as Chrysler Group dealers stock up on vehicles of the shortened 2011 model year, they'll have to start getting ready for the 2012 models. The truncated 2011 model year is a result of Chrysler's efforts to reinvigorate its lineup after its 2009 bankruptcy. The company introduced 16 new or revamped models for 2011 after a frantic 18-month engineering push.