The press release is here http://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/11199/all-new-2017-kia-optima-plug-in-hybrid-makes-global-debut-at-chicago-auto-show
It has an LG Chem battery - http://www.hyundai-blog.com/hyundai-electric-car-battery/ - not the same as the Soul EV
What is interesting for us is the new version of the infotainment. I wonder when / if we will get the upgrade.
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The Optima Plug-In Hybrid has the richest set of UVO telematics in any vehicle Kia has ever produced. With more than 30 features, the PHEV encompasses technology from Kia’s flagship telematics vehicles, the K900 luxury sedan and Soul EV, and adds Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay. UVO EV Services includes LTE wireless connectivity that enables direct communication to the vehicle for features such as remote start/stop, remote preconditioning of cabin temperature, and remote lock/unlock via the UVO app5. Included in the app is a full suite of My Car Zone features, which includes curfew and speed alerts and Geofence settings, as well as Local Search powered by Google®6, which allows users to easily search for POIs (Points of Interest).
Exclusive EV features for charging convenience include the ability to locate charging stations, an option to check your vehicle’s charge status, as well as scheduling charge events. Adding hands-free connectivity is Google® Voice Recognition Local Search, which can search for POIs utilizing voice recognition technology. Additionally, within the Kia App Store, apps can be downloaded to the head-unit using the PHEV’s Wi-Fi capability.
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All-new Eco-DAS3 (Driver Assistance System) features Kia’s first application of Coasting Guide. This feature aims at maximizing fuel economy by essentially coaching the driver on when to coast and brake via an icon in the Instrument Panel that blinks for four-seconds and sounds a one-time audible alert.