The 2008 Los Angeles International auto show brings us the world premiere of the Borrego Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV). Today, Kia pulled the wraps off it’s latest eco-friendly concept car, which takes it’s hydrogen fuel cell program to the next level and marks a major technological step forward in terms of vehicle’s performance and efficiency of the fuel-cell vehicle manufacturing process.

Equipped with fourth generation of Kia’s fuel-cell electric system, the Borrego features numerous innovations that bring the Borrego FCEV higher performance, a greatly extended driving range and a cold-weather starting capability to operate in sub-zero temperatures.

Available with two and three tank systems with 70MPa pressure, the Borrego FCEV’s power plant is located under the center floor and features a higher output horsepower fuel cell and a new 450-volts Supercapacitor .

The brand new fuel-cell system boasts an additional 47 horsepower of power to produce a peak output of 154 horsepower (a 44-percent increase compared to the previous generation) and propel the vehicle to a top speed of 100 miles per hour (mph) while boasting a best-in-class system efficiency of 62 percent.

With a 202-liter hydrogen storage tank located underneath the vehicle and ahead of the rear wheels, this latest Kia Motors research vehicle has a range of about 426 miles (685 kilometers).

Because of the use of aluminum body shell components, the Borrego FCEV has a power-to-weight ratio similar to the current production model SUV. The FCEV also retains the roomy cabin, low noise levels and overall driving refinement of its new gasoline/diesel-powered sibling.

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