Hyundai has unveiled the new Kona Electric, a subcompact crossover. The battery-electric version of the new Kona has the same design as its conventional counterpart with the exception of a closed grille and a few aerodynamic enhancements.
The Kona Electric features two different powertrain versions. The long-range battery version with a 64 kWh pack provides driving range of up to 470 kilometers (292 miles, WLTP), with energy consumption of 15.2 kWh/100 km. The electric motor delivers an output of 150 kW, accelerating the Kona Electric to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.
With a battery capacity of 39.2 kWh, the basic version drives delivers up to 300 km (186 miles) (WLTP) on a single charge with the motor delivering 99 kW and an energy consumption as low as 14.8 kWh/100 km.
Both powertrain versions deliver 395 N·m of immediate torque, offering the driver of Kona Electric great fun-to-drive, having the full power available from the first second, and supporting a maximum speed of 167 km/h (104 mph).
Charging the lithium-ion polymer battery up to 80% only takes about 54 minutes using a 100 kW direct current (DC) fast charger. With the 7.2 kW on-board-charger, charging with alternating current (AC) takes 9 hours 40 minutes for the long-range battery pack and 6 hours 10 minutes for the shorter-range battery pack. Drivers also have the option of charging their car at a compatible regular household power socket using the ICCB-cable (in-cable control box). The charging port is located in the vehicle’s front next to the Hyundai logo.
Aaron is an automotive journalist living in Wyoming, USA. His background includes technology, mechanics, commercial vehicles, and new vehicle evaluations. Aaron is a member of several automotive media groups and writes for many well-known publications.