Kia Optima Hybrid 2020 Owner's Manual page 9

HEV (HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE) SYSTEM
The Kia Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) uses both the gasoline engine and the electric motor for power. The electric
motor is run by a 270V high-voltage HEV battery.
Depending on the driving conditions, the HEV computer selectively operates between the engine and the electric
motor or even both at the same time.
Fuel efficiency increases when the engine is at idle, or when the vehicle is driven by the electric motor with the HEV
battery.
The HEV battery charge must be maintained because, at times, the engine may come on even at idle to act as a gen-
erator. Charging also occurs when decelerating or by regenerative braking.
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