Newly-Released Second-Generation Hyundai Kona Electric Boasts Impressive 490km Driving Range

Hyundai unveiled the second-generation Kona SUV in December, but only showcased the exterior and interior design at that time. Recently, the company has now disclosed the powertrain details of the Kona electric variant.

Unlike the traditional method of developing ICE (internal combustion engine) cars and then creating electric versions, Hyundai has taken a different approach by starting with the EV (electric vehicle) version and expanding to ICE and hybrid versions as well.

Hyundai Kona Electric's Impressive Battery and Extended Range Unveiled

The Kona electric model now offers two choices of powertrain: standard range and long range. The standard range version has a 48.4kWh battery that powers an electric motor generating 153 horsepower and 250Nm of maximum torque.

On the other hand, the long-range version has a bigger 65.4kWh battery that feeds an electric motor producing 215 horsepower and 255Nm of maximum torque. For comparison, the previous Kona version available in India had a smaller 39.2kWh battery pack.

It's worth noting that Hyundai has not yet provided the estimated driving range for the standard range version of the Kona electric. However, the automaker claims that the long-range variant can cover more than 490km on a single charge according to the WLTP cycle.

Additionally, the new Kona electric model supports one-pedal driving through its regenerative braking system, and it also comes with a vehicle-to-load feature that allows external devices to be powered using the car's battery, similar to the Ioniq 5.

Hyundai Kona Electric's Stylish Exterior and Modern Interior Design

The design of the new Kona takes inspiration from Hyundai's Seven concepts, which features a sleek front light bar, chunky off-road design cues, and a clamshell bonnet. The exterior design differs depending on the selected powertrain, with the EV model featuring pixel graphic details while the hybrid and ICE models have functional air intakes, grilles, and skid plates.

The new Kona is larger than its predecessor, measuring 150mm longer, 25mm wider, and with a 60mm longer wheelbase, resulting in more cabin space.

The interior features a wraparound digital driver display with dual 12.3-inch screens and physical buttons for climate control and heated seats. Additionally, the Kona Electric has a shift-by-wire gear selector located behind the steering wheel, which maximizes the storage in the console area.

Hyundai Kona Electric Boasts Advanced Features including One-Pedal Driving and Vehicle-to-Load CapabilityHyundai has shared the list of equipment that comes with the Kona electric. It features several high-tech components such as keyless entry, an 8-speaker Bose sound system, a powered tailgate, and a heads-up display.

Other features include over-the-air updates, connected car technology, and a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, intelligent speed limit assist, driver attention warning, high beam assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist, among others.

Hyundai Expands EV Line-up in India

Although the new version of the Kona electric was released last year, the previous generation is still featured on Hyundai India's website. It is not yet clear whether the updated version will be made available in India. In the meantime, the company has launched its second electric vehicle in India, the locally manufactured Ioniq 5.