Launched in 2000, the Kia Optima->ke1325 has evolved in a spectacular fashion from the rebadged Hyundai Sonata->ke1859 that was introduced 14 years ago to the sleek and sporty sedan->ke142 that debuted in 2011. The third-generation model also marked the introduction of a hybrid version, as well as the sedan's motorsports debut in the Pirelli World Challenge series. At the 2014 Paris Motor Show,->ke227 Kia showcased yet another variant of the Optima as a concept. This is the Optima T-Hybrid, a study that showcases the company's newest hybrid drivetrain.

Unlike the production Optima Hybrid, which uses the 2.4-liter gasoline engine and a 30kW electric motor, the T-Hybrid combines the brand's 1.7-liter turbodiesel engine and electric motor powered by a 48V lead-carbon battery. Although there are no production plans for the Optima T-Hybrid as of this writing, Kia->ke41 says the innovative drivetrain remains under consideration for future models.

Click past the jump to read more about the Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept.

Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept in detail

Though it works as a conventional hybrid that can be driven in electric-only mode at low speeds and when cruising, with braking serving to recharge the battery pack, the T-Hybrid features a handful of innovative technologies. First up is the electric supercharger mated to the already turbocharged diesel mill. The unit boosts torque and response at low engine speeds, while improving power and torque at all engine speeds when working in conjunction with the turbocharger.

Then there's the new belt-driven starter generator that replaces the conventional alternator. The generator helps the engine restart with almost no noise or vibration, making the stop-start system a more comfortable feature to live with.

Lastly, Kia claims the new drivetrain could provide a "significant reduction" of CO2 emissions, while delivering a power increase of between 15 to 20 percent for any model equipped with the combo. The Koreans didn't release any hard specs, but based on their estimates, the Optima equipped with 1.7-liter diesel engine - currently rated at 134 horsepower - could generate up to 160 ponies with the T-Hybrid drivetrain.

Drivetrain/Specifications