Special features

Hybrid vehicles sound different than gasoline engine vehicles. When the hybrid system operates, you might hear a sound from the hybrid battery system behind the rear seat. If you engage the accelerator pedal rapidly, you might hear an unconventional sound. When you engage the brake pedal, you might hear a sound from the regenerative braking system. When you turn the hybrid system off or on, you might hear a sound in the engine compartment. If you engage the brake pedal repeatedly when the hybrid system is on, you might hear a sound in the engine compartment. None of these sounds indicate a problem and are normal characteristics of hybrid vehicles.

Hearing a motor sound in the engine compartment is normal in any of the following situations:

  • When you turn off the hybrid system and release the brake pedal

  • When you turn off the hybrid system and engage the brake pedal

  • When you open the driver side door

When you turn on the hybrid system, the gasoline engine might or might not run and you might feel a vibration. A vibration does not indicate a malfunction. When the READY indicator displays, the hybrid system is ready to begin driving. You can operate the vehicle as long as the READY indicator appears, even when the engine is off.

NOTE

The hybrid system contains many electronic components. High voltage components, such as cables and other parts, might emit electromagnetic waves. Even when the electromagnetic cover blocks electromagnetic emissions, electromagnetic waves might affect electronic devices. When you do not use your vehicle for a long period of time, the hybrid battery discharges. To prevent hybrid battery discharging, drive the vehicle several times a month for at least for 1 hour or 26 km/h (6 mph) at a time. When the hybrid battery discharges or jump starting the vehicle is impossible, visit an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING

  • When you start the hybrid system with the gear in P (Park), the READY indicator displays on the instrument cluster and you can drive the vehicle (even when the gasoline engine is off).

  • When you park the vehicle, turn the hybrid system off. If you accidentally engage the accelerator pedal by mistake when the gear is not in P (Park), the vehicle moves abruptly, which might result in serious injury or death.