Autoblog repots, "Kia has just introduced its first mass production hybrid model based on the new Forte compact sedan in its home market of South Korea."  The Forte is Kia's newest small car, scheduled to replace the Spectra in the U.S. next year.

The Forte hybrid shown in Korea "uses a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine fueled by liquefied petroleum gas (propane) and is the first production vehicle to use a lithium polymer battery," The combination is reportedly god for the equivalent of 41 mpg, and makes 124 horsepower.  Autoblog reports.  While a propane-fueled vehicle is unlikely to reach the U.S. market, "it does seem likely that a Forte hybrid with a gas engine will arrive at some point."

The company may be planning a significant effort to sell hybrid vehicles.  Jalopnik adds, "In addition to launching their first production hybrid, Kia also announced their Eco-Dynamics brand, a sub-brand dedicated to green vehicles (we assume they mean ecological and not just neon Hulk green). It's unclear whether or not this brand will make it to the U.S., but the company has plans to bring the Eco-Dynamics-branded vehicles to the international market."

The first Kia hybrid to reach the U.S. may be a midsize car.  Edmunds Inside Line reports, "Kia also said it plans to introduce a midsize full-hybrid vehicle in 2011, which is said to be based on the Kia Optima."

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