The 2013 Kia Soul hasn't really registered with those of us concerned about fuel economy and emissions.

That's despite the Soul Eco achieving a respectable 36 mpg highway and 32 combined in EPA testing.

However, the Soul could get a lot greener in 2014, as Kia has apparently confirmed an electric version will make production in a few years.

According to Autocar, the electric model will be based on the all-new Soul set to be launched next Spring at either the Chicago or New York auto shows.

Very few details have been released at this stage, but given the current Soul's chunky, youthful styling, an electric version could end up being one of the more distinctive EVs on the roads--and increase the cars' appeal with younger buyers.

Kia is no stranger to electric propulsion.

It previewed the fantastic electric Pop concept at the 2010 Paris Auto Show, while last year it announced the Kia Ray, a home-market minicar, would be its first production EV.

Currently, Kia's most efficient model is the $25,700 Kia Optima Hybrid. The 2.4-liter hybrid sedan manages 40 mpg on the highway, and 37 combined.

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